FAIRFAX, Va. — George Mason (16-8, 11-2 Atlantic 10) battled hard but ultimately fell to Rhode Island (23-2, 14-0 Atlantic 10), 79-63, at EagleBank Arena. Despite forcing 15 turnovers and racking up 20 second-chance points, the Patriots couldn't overcome the Rams' offensive onslaught.
The first quarter saw George Mason flexing their rebounding muscles, especially on the offensive end, grabbing eight offensive boards.
Hawa Komara's relentless work in the paint paid off with crucial second-chance points, including a tip-in at 7:59. Komara also set a personal best with 16 rebounds, leading the charge on the glass. The lead seesawed between the Patriots and Rams, with a late layup by
Louis Volker tying the game at 13. However, a 3-pointer by Valentina Ojeda at 0:22 gave Rhode Island a slight 16–13 edge to end the quarter.
In the second quarter, the Green & Gold showed grit, highlighted by Volker's steal at 8:34 that sparked a brief scoring run. Yet, the Rams held their ground, building their lead with steady inside scoring.
Kennedy Harris kept the Patriots in the fight, sinking a jumper at 3:45 and adding two free throws just before halftime. The Patriots headed into the break trailing 36-25.
George Mason mounted a spirited comeback in the third quarter, driven by more offensive rebounds and second-chance opportunities, with Komara leading the charge under the basket. Her pivotal tip-ins, including one at 6:01, helped trim the deficit. Harris was clutch from the line, making all her free throws during the quarter. Despite their efforts, the Patriots were outscored 20-18 in the period, with the Rams holding a 56-43 advantage heading into the final quarter.
In the fourth quarter, George Mason pushed to close the gap, highlighted by
Zahirah Walton's effectiveness inside.
MJ Johnson added a crucial tip-in at 7:10, converting a three-point play to keep the Patriots in the hunt. But the Rams' offensive firepower, with Vanessa Harris making key plays, proved too much. The game wrapped up with Rhode Island securing the 79-63 victory.
PATRIOT POINTS
UP NEXT
The Patriots host a rematch with the Richmond Spiders on Monday, February 16 at 4 p.m. A live stream will be available on ESPN+.
