NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. – Despite junior Grace Lesko (Northampton, Pa./Northampton) and senior Megan Marcotte (Enfield, Conn./Enfield) scoring in double figures, the Mercy University Women's Basketball Team opened its 2025-26 season with a 65-50 loss at Division I Iona University in an Exhibition on Monday afternoon at the Hynes Athletics Center.
The game does not count towards Mercy's record. Iona (1-0) opens their season with a win.
Iona took an early lead with Zoey Ward's layup and maintained control through the first quarter, capitalizing on defensive pressure. Mercy managed to keep the game close early on, with a three-pointer from Lesko and free throws from junior Amani Abuhatab (West Haven, Conn./West Haven) trimming the deficit. However, Iona capitalized on Mercy's six turnovers, extending their lead with fast breaks and efficient free-throw shooting, closing the first 10 minutes with a 17-8 lead.
Mercy made significant strides in the second quarter, outscoring Iona 19-14, turning up their offensive pressure with contributions from several key players. Marcotte led the charge with a layup at 7:57, followed by a strong defensive effort resulting in a steal by senior Angelina Barrera (Gloucester City, N.J./Gloucester Catholic). Lesko's three-pointer at 3:05 was part of a sustained effort that brought Mercy within striking distance. Despite Iona's initial momentum, Mercy's bench contributed 10 points. Abuhatab's jumper as time expired narrowed the gap, ending the half with Iona leading 31-27.
Iona took a six point lead, 35-29, early in the third quarter before Mercy scored six unanswered points to tie the score at 35-35 after a Lesko three with 7:24 on the clock. The Gaels took control of the third quarter with strong defensive efforts, forcing nine turnovers from Mercy and converting them into 13 points. Mercy struggled to maintain possession, impacting their offensive rhythm, as they made only five field goals compared to Iona's ten. Despite shooting a perfect four-for-four from the free-throw line, Mercy trailed 53-42 at the end of the quarter.
In the fourth quarter, Iona's defense held Mercy to just eight points. Mercy managed to capitalize on turnovers, with sophomore Morgan Miller (Branford, Conn./Sacred Heart Academy) and Marcotte each securing a steal. However, Iona extended their lead with consistent scoring in the paint, as Mercy struggled with turnovers and missed opportunities. Despite efforts from Barrera and Marcotte, Iona maintained control. Abuhatab's two free throws with six seconds remaining couldn't close the gap, as Iona clinched a 65-50 victory.
Lesko led Mercy with 15 points, including four three-pointers, and added six rebounds. Marcotte contributed 11 points on 5-for-9 shooting and recorded two blocks. Barrera filled the stat sheet with five points, nine rebounds, and three steals. Abuhatab added eight points and four assists, providing support in the backcourt.
Iona's Isabellah Middleton led with a game-high 21 points and achieved a double-double by securing 10 rebounds, also contributing defensively with four steals. Naomi Barnwell followed closely, adding 18 points, including two 3-pointers, and recorded two steals.
Mercy shot 32.1 percent (18-for-56) from the floor, 28.6 percent (4-for-14) from beyond the arc and 76.9 percent (10-for-13) from the foul line. Iona shot 33.8 percent (26-for-77) from the field, 23.5 percent (4-for-17) from downtown and 90.0 percent (9-for-10) from the charity stripe. Iona held a 47-40 edge on the glass and used 23 Mercy turnovers to hold a 29-5 edge in points off turnovers.
Head Coach Scott Lagas and the Mavericks open their regular season on Saturday, November 15th when they face Bentley at Southern Connecticut State at 6:30 p.m.
