North Branch, NJ - The Raritan Valley Community College Women's Basketball team topped nationally ranked Harcum College last night by a final score of 64-62. Harcum College entered this week's NJCAA Division 2 National Ranking at #17. When Raritan Valley beat Harcum College last season in week two by a final score of 63-61, the Bears were ranked #3 in the country.
RVCC got off to a hot start from behind the arc as Sophia Larsen and Judith Vila each made a three point shot in the first quarter. The Lions' defense and rebounding helped them to an 18-11 lead going into the second frame. Harcum College was able to capitalize on a few RVCC turnovers and took a 34-33 lead into the break. However, the Lions responded in a major way in the third quarter knocking down 5, of their team total 10, three pointers in that frame to a take a ten point lead heading into the fourth. Larsen made 3 of her team high 5 three's in the quarter while Elizabeth May and Julia Fontanillo each connected from downtown as well in the third quarter. With the Lions clinging to a 2 point lead at 62-60 with just over thirty seconds to go, Fontanillo made a driving layup to stretch the lead to four points. After a made Harcum bucket, and two missed RVCC free throws, the Bears still had a chance to win or send the game to OT. However, a great defensive stop and a huge rebound by Telma Comba sealed the win for the Lions.
Sophia Larsen led all Lions with 21 points while Fontanillo was the only other player in double figures with 17. The team is off until the 28th when they travel to Scranton, PA to face the Falcons from Lackawanna College.