Purchase, NY - The University of Mount Saint Vincent had the task of taking on the Skyline Conference's top ranked team in Manhattanville College on Wednesday evening, in a contest that could very well be a preview of a playoff showdown next week. The Dolphins went toe-to-toe with the Valiants, pacing their opponents at every turn, but failed to convert a last second shot attempt to record the victory. The game finished with a 52-50 score in favor of the Valiants, dropping UMSV's conference record to 13-5 with just two games remaining on the schedule. 

Head coach Maria Nardulli shortened her bench in one of the team's final tuneups before the Skyline tournament, utilizing just nine players, seven of which played the bulk of the action. Magan Jackson once again paced UMSV in scoring with 16 points, with the sophomore also adding five rebounds, two steals, an assist and a block to her stat line. Guard Amber Been continued to look the part of an All-Conference selection after injuries derailed the first part of her season, as she collected 12 points, 12 rebounds, five assists, a block and a steal. 

Forward JaKaia Lotz also posted a double-double with 10 points and 12 boards while Kira Villegas collected four steals, a team-best. 

The Dolphins struggled offensively, shooting just 33% throughout the game. But their tenacious defense kept them within one possession over the course of 40 minutes. The Dolphins would lead by as many as five points in the fourth quarter, with Lotz, Villegas and Ariella Johnson each scoring impressive buckets to keep their team in front. The Valiants would hit a clutch three pointer to put the team up one, which was followed by a converted free throw with just seven seconds left. Senior guard Kayla Hanley had a chance to win the game at the buzzer, but her jumper failed to find its way to the bottom of the net. 

The Dolphins wrap up their road schedule on Thursday when they challenge Farmingdale State out on Long Island.