WHEELING, W.Va. – The University of Charleston women's basketball team dropped a tightly contested road game to Wheeling University, 56-48, snapping their nine game win streak on Wednesday night at the Alma McDonough Center.

The Basics:
Location: Alma Grace Mcdonough Gym
Score: 56-48 (L)
Records: UC 11-8 (7-5 MEC); Wheeling 11-8 (7-4 MEC)

How it Happened:
Despite a strong second quarter, the Golden Eagles struggled to maintain offensive rhythm in the second half as the Cardinals pulled away late.

Charleston started slowly in the first quarter, shooting 28.6% from the field as Wheeling took a 13-10 lead. The Golden Eagles responded in the second frame, outscoring the Cardinals 22-11 behind a strong shooting effort, including three three-pointers, to take a 32-24 advantage into halftime.

However, the momentum shifted in the third quarter. Charleston managed just nine points in the frame while Wheeling found its stride, using free throws and improved shooting to cut the deficit to one heading into the final period. In the fourth quarter, the Golden Eagles shot just 23.1% from the floor and were outscored 16-7, allowing the Cardinals to secure the win.

Harper Annarino led Charleston with nine points, hitting three shots from beyond the arc. Jamia Nesmith added eight points and five rebounds, while Paris Stokes contributed seven points and six boards. Kiley Graham pulled down a team-high eight rebounds while also blocking three shots.

Charleston shot 36.4% (20-of-55) from the field, including 28.6% (6-of-21) from three-point range, while Wheeling finished at 42.2% (19-of-45) overall and 28.6% (4-of-14) from deep. The Cardinals capitalized at the free-throw line, converting 14-of-17 (82.4%), compared to Charleston's 2-of-4 (50.0%).

Up Next:
The Golden Eagles return to action on Saturday as they host their next MEC matchup which is against West Liberty University. Tipoff is set for 5:30pm in the Wehrle Innovation Center.