Box Score Mary Baldwin opened the 2023-24 women's basketball campaign with a non-conference setback at the PAC against local rival Bridgewater Wednesday by a 76-38 margin.

The Fighting Squirrels were even in the game midway through the first quarter before the visitors pulled away for a 22-10 lead after 10 minutes.  MBU outscored the Eagles by a 17-15 count in the second quarter, trailing 39-25 at halftime, before the visitors pulled away in the second half.

Newcomer Aryanna Brent led the way for the Fighting Squirrels with 13 points in her first collegiate contest.  Senior A'Cetta Farrait added eight points and both of MBU's steals while classmate Codie Heilig pulled in 10 rebounds, nine on the defensive end of the court and added four points and two assists.

Riley Corcoran and Jaiden Polston each tallied 13 points for the visitors.  Polston also had a game high 12 rebounds.  Jaden Alsberry also had a double-double with 10 points and 11 caroms for Bridgewater.

The Fighting Squirrels play twice this weekend, first at Hood in Frederick, Md., Saturday (6 p.m.), followed by a 2 p.m. home game Sunday against Hollins.  MBU is hosting an alumnae tailgate prior at 12:30 p.m. in the PAC Dance Room prior to Sunday's contest.