Rutherford, NJ – The Felician University Women's Basketball team completed an exciting comeback on Friday morning, defeating Lincoln University 85-76 in the inaugural Title IX Challenge at John Jay College.
Playing in front of a jam-packed crowd of students from schools around the area, the Golden Falcons had the opportunity to compete in this first-time event, as the game provided excitement for all in attendance.
Early on, the Lions controlled the game, leading by as many as 19 points. However, the Golden Falcons locked in and stormed back into the game, eventually taking the lead for good.
With 4:56 remaining in the third quarter, a Noella Biduaya layup tied the game for the first time since the opening tip, while two consecutive buckets from Ane Valle gave the Golden Falcons their first lead of the game. After Lincoln responded with a score of their own, a Stephanie Formby three-pointer and two made free throws from Valle gave the Golden Falcons a five-point cushion.
While the Lions would try to regain the lead, the Golden Falcons wouldn't let it happen.
The key down the stretch came down to Felician's ability to capitalize at the free-throw line. Over the final three minutes of action, the Golden Falcons connected on 8 of their 10 attempts from the line, helping them secure the victory.
Over the final three quarters of play, Felician outscored Lincoln 73-45. The offensive surge was led by the duo of Formby and Valle, who performed tremendously in this inaugural event.
Formby was a dominant force throughout, finishing with a game-high 26 points. Over 37 minutes played, Formby also added eight rebounds, three assists, and a block.
Valle earned Most Valuable Player honors for the game, as she scored 24 points while adding seven assists, four rebounds, two steals, and a block to her final stat line.
While the offensive surge was led by the duo of Formby and Valle, the Golden Falcons received some timely baskets from Katherine Ritchie, Deviney Jackson, Adriana Perez, and Natalia Lucic.
Following the exciting victory over Lincoln, the Felician Women's Basketball team will be back in action on Saturday afternoon as they host Puerto Rico-Bayamon in their home opener. Tip-off is scheduled for 3:00 PM EST at JJJ Gymnasium.
