FAIRMONT, W.Va. – The University of Charleston women's basketball team dropped a hard-fought 72-59 decision to Fairmont State on Saturday afternoon at Joe Retton Arena.

The Basics:
Location: Feaster Center
Score: 72-59 (L)
Records: UC 2-7 (0-4 MEC); Fairmont State 7-2 (3-1 MEC)

How it Happened:
The Golden Eagles (2-7, 0-4 MEC) started slowly as Fairmont State jumped to a 24-14 lead after the first quarter. Despite a second-quarter surge where Charleston outscored the Falcons 15-14, the early deficit proved challenging to overcome. The Golden Eagles trailed 38-29 at halftime.

Kiley Graham led Charleston with a double-double, tallying 14 points and an impressive 14 rebounds. Sydney Bolles and Paris Stokes each contributed 11 points, with Bolles grabbing six boards. Kiara Cruz provided a spark off the bench, scoring 10 points, including two three-pointers.

Charleston continued to battle in the third quarter, with Graham and Stokes combining for key baskets, but Fairmont State's balanced scoring kept the home team ahead. The Golden Eagles entered the fourth quarter trailing 55-42 and were unable to cut into the margin despite solid rebounding efforts.

Harper Annarino added eight points and a game-high nine rebounds for the Golden Eagles.

Up Next: 
Charleston will look to bounce back on Wednesday, December 11, as they travel to take on West Liberty University. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m. at the Academic Sports and Recreation Complex.