WAYNE, N.J. — A well-rounded offensive effort and significant contributions from the bench led Hunter to a 96-87 victory over No. 3 seed Goucher College on Saturday afternoon in the first round of the ECAC Tournament. With multiple players stepping up in big moments, Hunter advances to the next round, led by an outstanding performance from Alexa Charles.

Alexa Charles paced the team with 41 points, 14 rebounds, and five assists, shooting an efficient 62.5% (15-for-24) from the field. She made her presence felt on both ends, adding four steals and converting 11-of-15 free-throw attempts.

Erin Cosio provided a strong offensive spark, scoring 18 points and knocking down 4-of-7 from three-point range (57.1%), well above her season average of 35.8%. Gianna Henriques was a force in the paint with 10 points, six rebounds, and three steals, while Katie Burke contributed nine points, five rebounds, and a blocked shot.

Both teams finished with 39 rebounds, but Hunter controlled the defensive glass with 30 defensive boards compared to Goucher's 22. The Hawks were also more efficient offensively, shooting 56.1% from the field compared to Goucher's 37.8%, and they capitalized at the free-throw line, hitting 25-of-40, while Goucher made 21-of-28.

Hunter's depth off the bench was crucial in securing the win. Kimberly Lau contributed nine points and four assists, while Makkedah Murray added four points, four assists, and three steals. Kimberly Lau's efficiency at the free-throw line, where she made 5-of-6 attempts, played a key role in sealing the victory in the closing minutes.

Hunter maintained control of the game's tempo, forcing 17 steals and scoring 21 fast-break points, while holding Goucher to just 2-of-10 shooting from three-point range in the fourth quarter.

Hunter advances to the ECAC semifinals, with game details to be announced soon.