New York, N.Y. – The Hunter College women's basketball team grabbed a win in its final game of the 2024 calendar year, in a non conference matchup against Elmira College at the Sportsplex on Monday afternoon. With the 63-58 win, the Hawks improve to 6-3 overall.
Hunter opened with a steady offensive rhythm, led by junior guard Alexa Charles, who netted 10 of her game-high 30 points in the opening period, keeping the Hawks within striking distance as Elmira (6-3) held a slight 21-20 advantage after the first ten minutes of play.
The Purple and Gold tightened their defense in the second quarter, limiting Elmira to just 15 points. Charles continued to dominate inside, while Erin Cosio drained a critical three-pointer to energize the team. Hunter outscored Elmira 17-15 in the period, taking a narrow 37-36 lead into halftime.
Hunter's defense intensified further in the second half, as both teams pushed the pace. Kennedy DeRuy provided energy off the bench, contributing seven of the Hawks' 10 bench points. Kimberly Lau also made a significant impact defensively, recording four steals to aid Hunter's 20 second-chance points, while Elmira was held to just 11.
In the final frame, Hunter's balanced attack proved too much for the visitors, who were held to just nine points. The Hawks knocked down three crucial three-pointers, with Cosio hitting two at a .500 clip from beyond the arc and Katie Burke adding another to secure the 63-58 victory.
Charles delivered a standout all-around performance with five steals and four rebounds to complement her 30 points. Cosio also finished in double figures with 11 points, while Eliah Yode was a force on both ends of the court, leading the team with eight rebounds, three steals, and three assists to go along with her six points.
The Hawks shot .383 from the field and .278 from three-point range while holding Elmira to .333 overall and just .176 from beyond the arc. Despite being out-rebounded 54-32, Hunter capitalized on Elmira's 27 turnovers to close out 2024 with a victory.
Hunter returns to action on Jan. 5, traveling to Kings Point, N.Y., for a 12 p.m. tip-off against USMMA.
