MORAGA, CA – The Lions came up short against the Saint Mary's Gaels on Saturday afternoon, losing 59-54. 

Brandi Williams led LMU with 16 points, three assists, and two rebounds, while Maya Hernandez added 15 points and six boards. 

Naudia Evans also had a strong performance with nine points, eight assists, and five rebounds.

The game started on a solid note for the Lions, who shot 50% from the field and hit two of three from beyond the arc in the first quarter. A big three-pointer from Amelie Sitterud put LMU up 12-7 midway through, and they closed out the quarter leading 16-11.

The second quarter was tougher for LMU, as they struggled offensively, shooting just 20% from the field. Saint Mary's found their rhythm and went on a late 6-0 run to take their first lead at 22-21. A free throw by Hernandez tied it up before halftime, 22-22.

The Lions came out strong in the third, starting with back-to-back layups to retake the lead. It was a back-and-forth battle, but the Gaels edged ahead with a late 5-2 run to take a 37-34 lead into the final quarter.

The fourth quarter was a shootout, with both teams scoring over 20 points. LMU shot 42.1% in the period, but Saint Mary's was red-hot, hitting 75% of their shots. The Lions got within three points several times, including a four-point play from Williams late in the game, but they couldn't complete the comeback.

The Lions will be back in action on Saturday, Dec. 28, at 2 PM when they host the San Francisco Dons at Gersten Pavilion.

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