WINCHESTER, Va. – The EMU women's basketball team put up a strong fight early, but they ultimately fell to Shenandoah in their 2024-25 season finale Saturday afternoon. The Royals kept pace in the first half, but a dominant third quarter by the Hornets proved to be the difference as EMU fell 84-51 at the James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletics & Events Center in Winchester.

Records: EMU 11-14, 3-13 ODAC | Shenandoah 16-9, 11-5 ODAC

Highlights 

First Quarter
The Royals started strong, keeping the game competitive in the opening period. EMU found offensive production from Grace Burke and Jeriyah Osborne, with Burke knocking down key three-pointers early. Shenandoah, however, took advantage of their home court and held a 20-15 lead after the first 10 minutes.

Second Quarter
EMU continued to battle in the second quarter, with Osborne adding to the scoring column. The Royals' defense forced key stops, keeping them within striking distance. However, Shenandoah extended their lead slightly, heading into the break with a 39-30 advantage.

Third Quarter
Shenandoah came out firing in the second half, taking control of the game with a 27-point third quarter. EMU struggled to keep up offensively as the Hornets pushed their lead past 20 points. Despite efforts from Osborne and Lauren Townsend, the Royals found themselves trailing 66-40 heading into the final frame.

Fourth Quarter
EMU continued to fight through the fourth quarter, with Aldora Tuilaepa and Kaliyah Braxton contributing points off the bench. The Royals played hard to the final buzzer, but the deficit was too large to overcome as Shenandoah secured the conference victory.

Statistical Leaders
Scoring: Townsend (13)
Rebounds: Burke (5)
Assists: Osborne (2)
Steals: Kaylene Todd (2)
Blocks: Osborne (1)

What's Next 
That concludes the 2024-25 season for EMU Women's Basketball. The Royals graduate three key players in Laila Glymph, Jayla Gray, and Adrianna Jacobs, but they'll be bringing back a lot of scoring for next year's team. 

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