ALLENTOWN, PA – The Bryn Mawr basketball team fought a tough game on Tuesday night, battling conference opponent Muhlenberg in Memorial Hall. Despite a strong showing from Bryn Mawr, the Owls fell to the Mules, 69-53. 

Highlights: 

• Senior guard Jessica Smith continued her stellar season, leading the Owls with 18 points and adding nine rebounds and three assists. Smith's effort on both ends of the court was matched by sophomore teammate Daphne Bracker Sturm, who cashed in 10 points and seven rebounds in a well-rounded performance. 

• The Owls found themselves behind early, trailing 15-10 after the first quarter. Muhlenberg's efficient shooting and defensive pressure forced Bryn Mawr into tough looks, but the Owls remained within striking distance thanks to key buckets from Bracker Sturm and fellow classmate Michelle Jiang, who added six points off the bench. 

• Bryn Mawr picked up the pace in the second quarter, with Smith and Bracker Sturm leading the charge. The Owls' defense also stepped up, limiting Muhlenberg to just 40% shooting in the frame. However, the Mules capitalized off turnovers and got second-chance opportunities that allowed them to extend their lead to 30-23 at halftime. 

• Coming out of the break, the Owls looked to narrow the gap. Smith took control offensively, scoring eight points in the third quarter alone. Hannah Mack added a spark with 10 points and three blocks, helping Bryn Mawr keep the game tight. Despite the effort, Muhlenberg's perimeter shooting and consistent scoring gave them a 49-37 advantage heading into the final frame. 

• In the fourth quarter, Bryn Mawr continued to fight. Smith and Bracker Sturm combined for critical buckets late in the game, but the Mules' steady free-throw shooting down the stretch helped them secure the win. 

With the loss, Bryn Mawr moves to 7-11 on the season. The Owls will look to bounce back when they return to the court this Saturday, hosting Washington College in a 1:00 PM matchup at the Class of 1958 Gymnasium. The game will be dedicated to the organization Champions for Literacy. Read more about Champions for Literacy under the press release on gobrynmawr.com. Be sure to follow @bmcathletics to stay up to date with your favorite Bryn Mawr teams.