Box Score Photo Gallery

The Lindenwood Lady Lions women's basketball team fell to Lincoln University 76-69 in the team's season opener on Saturday night at the Hyland Arena.

The contest started off with both teams showing no first-game jitters. Both teams connected on the game's first five shots and the teams were tied at six. Lindenwood continued its hot shooting and extended the lead to seven points after 12 minutes of play.

Lincoln answered back with a 10-2 run and grabbed a one-point lead. Cassie Bluemner stopped the run with a three-pointer, followed by two free throws and a layup by Morgan Harrington to give the home team a four-point edge. Arriana Walker hit a three-pointer at the buzzer to cut the Lady Lions lead to one at the half.

The halftime lead was the last time the Lady Lions held the advantage for the rest of the game. Lincoln began the second half on a 21-7 run over the first 10 minutes to jump out to the game's biggest lead of 13. Lindenwood cut the score to seven with 22 seconds to play but Lincoln closed the game out at the free-throw line.

Lindenwood shot 55 percent from the field and just 58 percent from the charity stripe. The Blue Tigers also shot the ball well from the floor at a 57 percent clip.

Both teams struggled holding onto the ball, combining for 45 turnovers. Lincoln racked up 15 steals and the Lions swiped seven.

Harrington led the way for Lindenwood scoring 19 points, while going a perfect 6-for-6 from the free-throw stripe. Freshman Meagan Hittle scored 14 points in her first collegiate game. Caroline Bourlioux pitched in with 10 points and led the team in rebounding with eight.

Up next for the Lady Lions is a road game against Kentucky Wesleyan on Nov. 16 in Owensboro, Ky.