Indiana, PA – Fresh off their Mountain East Conference Tournament championship, the Golden Eagles faced Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament.

The Basics

• Location: Kovalchick Convention & Athletic Complex
• Final Score: UC 53, IUP 79
• Records: Charleston (21-11, 14-6 MEC), Indiana University of Pennsylvania (27-3, 16-3 PSAC)

How It Happened
Charleston controlled the opening tip, but IUP quickly responded by scoring the game's first three points. Paris Stokes answered with back-to-back layups, giving the Golden Eagles their first lead. From there, however, the Crimson Hawks settled into an offensive rhythm and began to create separation. With 3:46 remaining in the first quarter, IUP stretched its lead to nine on a jumper. Charleston refused to back down, responding with a 9–0 run capped by two free throws to tie the game at 19. A late layup by IUP gave the home team a narrow two-point edge heading into the second quarter.
The second quarter remained competitive throughout. Charleston briefly reclaimed the lead early on thanks to a three-pointer from Natalie Smith, who played a key role in keeping the Golden Eagles within striking distance. After IUP pushed its lead back to five, Smith added a layup to keep things close. Still, the Crimson Hawks closed the half strong, using an 8–2 run to take a 40–32 lead into the break.

Coming out of halftime, Charleston showed renewed energy. Neveah Brooks and Smith combined for nine straight points to give the Golden Eagles a one-point advantage. But IUP quickly answered with a decisive 10–0 run, regaining control of the game. Charleston fought to stay within reach behind the inside presence of Bridget Womber and Smith, but the Crimson Hawks extended their lead to 14 by the end of the third quarter.
In the final period, IUP took full command. Charleston struggled offensively, managing just six points in the quarter, while the Crimson Hawks continued to execute and pull away. Demonstrating why they earned the region's top seed, IUP secured a 79–53 victory.

Charleston concludes its season with a 21–11 record (14–6 MEC), highlighted by an impressive run to capture the MEC Tournament title.