Morgan Golliver, Staff Writer
The Utica College women’s basketball team returned home from a four-game road trip to host Ithaca College on Tuesday evening for an Empire 8 match-up. The Pioneers came into this game with a four-game losing streak while Ithaca had won their last nine games. 

Ithaca took advantage from the start shooting 57.6 percent compared to Utica’s 29.6 percent. The Bombers also recovered 13 defensive rebounds compared to Utica’s 10 to give them a 42-24 lead at halftime.

In the second half, the Pioneers improved their shooting to 43.3 percent, but it just wasn’t enough as they were still down by double figures throughout the majority of the game.

Ithaca went on to win 79-63 over the Pioneers who fall to 4-11 in conference play. Junior Ashley Mayo and sophomore Rachel Hunter both led the Pioneers with 17 points while senior Ali Ricchiuti and junior Jordan Beers both led the Bombers with 16 points.

Looking ahead, the Pioneers will play their final game of the season on Saturday against Elmira where they will honor senior Calypso Carty.