The NYU women's basketball team (4-2) let a first half lead slip away as it fell 62-50 at the hands of Baruch College (5-2) for its second straight loss.
The Violets led 25-21 at halftime, despite shooting just 31 percent from the field. Their defense, however, kept them in front as they limited Baruch to only 25 percent shooting.
"Our half-court offense and defense was very good," head coach Stefano Trompeo said. "The overall urgency and competitive spirit I was happy with."
NYU, a team that usually makes a living at the line, attempted just three free throws in the opening period. Still, NYU controlled the first half and the tempo of play.
However, Baruch came out of the locker room with something to prove. The Bearcats dominated the second half, out-scoring the Violets, 41-25.
"Baruch was able to take control over the tempo of the game in the second half and gained the momentum," Trompeo said. "They applied a lot of pressure in the backcourt, which caused a lot of problems for us."
For the second time this season, NYU struggled mightily against a full court press. After nearly coughing up a huge lead earlier in the year against Fairleigh Dickinson-Florham when the Devils started pressing, the Violets again let the game slip away against pressure.
Baruch's intense defense led to ill-advised three-pointers, and the Violets finished the second half 0-5 from behind the arc.
The Violets' shot selection was altered by the pace of Baruch's attack. The Bearcats didn't give up many fast break opportunities, preventing easy lay-ups. NYU was also hindered by 22 turnovers, which gave Baruch extra opportunities to score.
"We made a great effort and had great intensity, but we had way too many turnovers and couldn't break their press," said senior Cara Bonito, who scored all of her team-high 12 points in the second half.
Junior Makenzie Hirz, who had 13 rebounds, was one point short of a double-double. Kiara Johnson led the way for Baruch with 17 points.
NYU will look to break its losing streak on Wednesday when it hosts Manhattanville College at Coles Sports Center at 7 p.m.
