Penn State’s women’s basketball team entered Indiana’s Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall on a promising note, having achieved their longest winning streak of the season with three consecutive victories. However, they faced a formidable challenge in the Indiana Hoosiers, whose star guard Shay Ciezki shone brilliantly, leading her team to a decisive 93-59 victory.
From the outset, Lady Lions head coach Carolyn Kieger deployed a starting lineup featuring Gracie Merkle, Tèa Clèante, Nyla McFadden, Moriah Murray, and Kiyomi McMiller, who was on the brink of making conference history. McMiller had recorded over 30 points in her previous six games, tying the record set by hoop legend Caitlyn Clark for the longest streak in Big Ten history. Unfortunately for McMiller, her quest for the record was swiftly derailed as the game unfolded.
The Lady Lions struggled significantly in the first quarter, falling behind 31-8 before managing a better performance in the subsequent quarter. However, they still went into halftime trailing by 34 points, struggling with shooting efficiency and a high number of turnovers. McMiller began the game poorly, shooting just 1-of-8 from the field, while Indiana’s starters dominated, with nearly all reaching double-digit points by halftime.
After the break, Penn State tried to regain control with a brief 9-6 run, but their momentum was halted when Cleante sustained an injury early in the third quarter. Merkle emerged as the main scoring threat for the Lady Lions, but their efforts were continually stifled by Indiana’s solid defense and consistent scoring.
As the fourth quarter progressed, Indiana maintained their lead, executing an 11-point run that highlighted Penn State’s extended scoring drought. The game concluded with Indiana comfortably ahead, solidifying their strong performance.
McMiller’s struggles culminated in a mere four points on 1-of-12 shooting, marking her lowest scoring effort of the season. Merkle stood out for the Lady Lions with 22 points, while Ciezki led all scorers with 29, receiving a warm standing ovation as she exited the game.
The loss concluded Penn State’s season with an overall record of 11-18 and a 4-14 mark in the Big Ten. Kieger has yet to achieve a winning conference record in her seven years at the helm.
Looking ahead, the Lady Lions have closed their regular season and now await the Big Ten Tournament, scheduled from March 4 to 8. Although a win would have guaranteed their participation, their fate now hinges on a Northwestern victory over Purdue to ensure they make the trip to Chicago. The team remains hopeful for a chance to make an impact in the tournament.