FAIRFAX, Va. — George Mason (23-10, 16-2 Atlantic 10) wrapped up their 2025-26 season with a hard-fought game against Quinnipiac (27-6, 19-1 MAAC), falling 71-64. Despite forcing 17 turnovers and converting them into 16 points, the Patriots couldn't quite overcome the Bobcats.
George Mason came out strong in the first quarter, matching Quinnipiac's intensity.
Jada Brown's early layup tied the score at 2-2, setting the tone for a competitive start. Although turnovers and missed shots plagued the Patriots, they stayed in the fight with contributions from
Zahirah Walton, who nailed a layup and a couple of free throws. The Bobcats, however, took advantage of fast-breaks and 3-pointers to gain an edge.
Mary Amoateng's assist to
Page Greenburg for a 3-pointer at the buzzer trimmed the lead, closing the quarter at 21-13 in favor of Quinnipiac.
In the second quarter, the Green & Gold rallied, sparked by a clutch jumper from
Kennedy Harris with just over three minutes left. George Mason capitalized on free-throw opportunities with Amoateng and Walton sinking critical shots from the line.
Hawa Komara's defensive prowess, including a key steal with under a minute remaining, helped contain the Bobcats. The Patriots outscored Quinnipiac 17-14, heading into halftime trailing 35-30.
The third quarter saw George Mason shifting the momentum through stifling defense, racking up five steals.
Kennedy Harris snatched a critical steal at 1:19, leading to a fast-break layup by Maliyah Johnson moments later. Walton was a force in the paint, adding vital points and converting late free throws. The Patriots outpaced Quinnipiac 22-21 in the quarter, closing the gap to 56-52.
Heading into the fourth quarter, George Mason turned up the defensive pressure, forcing turnovers and grabbing key rebounds.
Kennedy Harris hit a pivotal layup at 7:29, assisted by Walton, pulling the Patriots within five. Despite
Mary Amoateng's efforts, including a steal and a layup, and Walton's fast-break finish at 0:39, George Mason couldn't overtake the Bobcats.
Harris and Walton continued to battle on both ends, but late free throws from Jackie Grisdale sealed the game for Quinnipiac. The contest ended with a final score of 71-64 in favor of the Bobcats.
PATRIOT POINTS
