The Milwaukee women’s basketball team faced a narrow defeat against Robert Morris, losing by one point with a final score of 56-55 at the UPMC Events Center. The game was closely contested, featuring 13 lead changes and nine ties. The decisive moment came when Robert Morris scored two free throws with 6.8 seconds remaining.
Jada Donaldson led Milwaukee with 14 points, including four three-pointers. Kacee Baumhower contributed 13 points, while Anna Lutz added 12 points. The Panthers collectively made nine three-pointers during the game.
Milwaukee shot 18-for-48 from the field compared to Robert Morris’ 19-for-54. The Colonials held a significant advantage in rebounds, out-rebounding Milwaukee 43-31 and scoring 15 second-chance points.
Head coach Kyle Rechlicz commented on the team’s performance: “In the first half we were not working well together… but we have to put a complete game together and can’t give up 18 offensive rebounds.”
Donaldson started strong for Milwaukee with an early three-pointer, but RMU quickly responded. After a tight first quarter ending at 14-12 in favor of Milwaukee, Robert Morris took control before halftime with a run that gave them a seven-point lead.
In the second half, Milwaukee responded by taking a brief lead after holding RMU scoreless for nearly six minutes. However, both teams continued to exchange leads throughout the fourth quarter.
A crucial foul against Milwaukee allowed RMU to regain the lead via free throws in the final seconds. Lutz had an opportunity to win it for Milwaukee but missed her last attempt as time expired.
Coach Rechlicz reflected on their performance: “We’re still searching and that’s unfortunate this time of year now that we’re in conference play… I really liked how we played in the second half offensively.”
Noa Given led RMU with ten points while Isys Grady, Jada Lee, and Naomi Barnwell each contributed nine points.
Milwaukee will next face Green Bay Phoenix at home on Wednesday evening at Klotsche Center.
