Milton, MA - Curry women's basketball put together one of their strongest efforts of the season but came up just short in a tightly contested 60–55 loss to Hartford at Katz Gymnasium. The Colonels battled for all four quarters, and even took the lead late in the fourth quarter, but couldn't quite close it out down the stretch.

Hartford (8-7, 5-1 CNE) opened the game with a quick burst, scoring 21 points in the first quarter to take a 21–15 advantage. Curry answered with steady production inside from Kasey Reeves and Sophie Hilbrunner, while Ella Palanza helped anchor the paint on both ends. Despite Hartford's early edge, Curry stayed composed and closed the gap in the second quarter behind improved defensive pressure and ball movement.

The Colonels outscored Hartford 14–10 in the second period to head into halftime trailing just 31–29. Samantha Conti controlled the tempo from the guard spot, finishing with nine rebounds and four assists, while Curry's defense forced Hartford into harder looks. The Colonels' ability to rebound and limit second-chance opportunities kept the game within reach.

Both teams traded baskets in the third quarter as Hartford maintained a slim lead. The Colonels continued to attack inside, with Reeves finishing strong around the rim and Palanza battling for offensive boards. Lauren Morse provided a major spark off the bench, knocking down four three-pointers and leading all Curry scorers with 14 points, giving the Colonels key momentum swings throughout the half.

Entering the fourth quarter down 44–41, Curry was in position for the upset bid. Despite having trailed the visitors for nearly the entirety of 40 minutes, the Colonels would jump ahead 51-49 with a pair of free throws from Samantha Conti at the 2:47 mark. Unfortunately, after that moment the Hawks would finish on a 9-4 run, getting timely free throws and stops to avoid the road loss.

Morse's perimeter shooting and Hilbrunner's work inside fueled the comeback attempt, while Grace Fleuriel added energy defensively with a block and three assists.

Hartford would finish the game shooting 18-of-23 from the stripe which was important in the final minutes. Curry shot 41.5 percent from the field and won the rebounding battle, 37–29, but turnovers and missed opportunities at the foul line proved costly in a game decided by small margins.

Reeves paced Curry with 14 points and six rebounds, while Morse matched her with 14 off the bench. Palanza added nine points and nine rebounds, and Hilbrunner chipped in nine points.

Up Next: The Colonels will travel to Gordon College on Saturday for a weekend matchup at 1 PM.