ST. MARY'S CITY, Md. – The St. Mary's College of Maryland women's basketball team opened its 2026-27 campaign Monday evening, dropping a competitive 52-47 decision to Marymount University at the Michael P. O'Brien Athletics & Recreation Center Arena.
The Seahawks (0-1) battled throughout the contest against the Saints (1-1), overcoming an early deficit and putting together a strong third-quarter performance before Marymount pulled away late to secure the five-point victory.
Marymount jumped out to a 16-11 advantage after the opening quarter, capitalizing on opportunities inside to establish an early lead. St. Mary's responded defensively in the second quarter, limiting the Saints to just 10 points while continuing to work toward closing the gap. However, Marymount maintained a 26-17 advantage at halftime.
The Seahawks came out of the break with renewed energy, producing a 16-point third quarter while holding Marymount to just eight points. St. Mary's steadily chipped away at the deficit and eventually tied the game at 30-30 midway through the period. The Seahawks continued their momentum, taking a 34-30 lead before Marymount answered to make it a one-point game heading into the final quarter.
St. Mary's continued to battle in the fourth, with the two teams exchanging baskets throughout the period. The Seahawks briefly held a two-point advantage at 39-37, but Marymount responded with a run to regain control. The Saints built a six-point lead late in the contest, and despite St. Mary's efforts to close the gap, Marymount converted key free throws down the stretch to preserve the 52-47 win.
Saffiyah Gibson led the Seahawks offensively with 17 points, adding seven steals and two assists in an impactful performance on both ends of the floor. Marley Saunders contributed 11 points, including three three-pointers, while Skylar Woodyard and India Watkins each chipped in six points off the bench.
London Best provided a strong presence on the glass, finishing with nine rebounds, five points, three steals, and a block. Rayna Miller added five rebounds and two points, while the Seahawks totaled 13 steals as a team.
St. Mary's finished the contest shooting 36.2 percent from the field and 16.7 percent from beyond the arc. Marymount shot 40 percent overall and 11.8 percent from three-point range, while both teams converted 10 free throws.
Next Up: Wednesday, November 11 | @ Rutgers - Camden
