BETHLEHEM, PA – The University of North Dakota women's basketball team fell just short in a hard-fought battle against Marist, 60-56, on Sunday afternoon at Stabler Arena during the Christmas City Classic. The Fighting Hawks dropped to 2-5 on the season, while the Red Foxes improved to 4-4.

The Fighting Hawks started the first quarter strong, establishing an early presence in the paint. Despite their efforts, UND struggled with shooting consistency, allowing Marist to take a 16-11 lead. UND's defense showed promise, forcing eight turnovers and limiting Marist to just 5-of-14 shooting from the field.

In the second quarter, UND's offensive struggles continued as the team managed only 10 points. However, Jayla Owen and Nevaeh Ferrara Horne provided a spark by sinking back-to-back three-pointers, keeping the Fighting Hawks within striking distance. Despite this, UND had trouble on the boards, trailing 16-6 in rebounds during the quarter. Marist led 30-21 at halftime.

The third quarter saw UND fight back, led by Jocelyn Schiller, who ignited the offense with several quick baskets. Kiera Pemberton added energy on both ends of the court, contributing six points and one steal. UND outshot Marist 35.7% to 28.6% from the field in the quarter and maintained a strong presence in the paint with eight points.

In the fourth quarter, UND found their momentum, mounting a significant comeback and outscoring Marist 21-14. Schiller spearheaded the charge with 10 points and one steal, while the Hawks protected the ball, committing just one turnover and forcing four from the Red Foxes. With minutes remaining, UND narrowed the deficit to a single possession. However, a late turnover and clutch free throws by Marist ultimately secured the win for the Red Foxes, leaving UND just short of completing the rally.

The Fighting Hawks will return to action at home next week as they host Weber State on Wednesday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m.

Postgame Notes
•    Walker Demers posted a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds, converting 9-of-12 free throws.
•    Kiera Pemberton led UND with 15 points and seven rebounds, shooting 7-of-11 from the field.
•    Jocelyn Schiller added 14 points, five rebounds, and three steals.
•    Schiller and Demers each recorded two assists, accounting for all four of UND's assists.
•    UND shot 30.2% (16-of-53) from the field and struggled from three-point range, hitting just 5-of-23 (21.7%).
•    Marist shot 31% (18-of-58) from the field and 25% (8-of-32) from beyond the arc.
•    The Fighting Hawks held a slight edge at the free-throw line, shooting 79.2% (19-of-24) compared to Marist's 84.2% (16-of-19).
•    Marist outrebounded UND 42-35.
•    Walker Demers earned a spot on the Christmas City Classic All-Tournament Team after leading the Hawks in scoring on Saturday and recording a double-double on Sunday.

How It Happened
•    Q1: UND 11, Marist 16
•    Q2: UND 10, Marist 14
•    Q3: UND 14, Marist 16
•    Q4: UND 21, Marist 14

For more information on North Dakota women's basketball, visit FightingHawks.com or follow @UNDwbasketball on social media.