Freshman Lanie Bethel poured in a season-high 26 points to lead Mary Baldwin, but the Fighting Squirrels fell to Pfeiffer Saturday afternoon, 71-66 in the team's season finale and Senior Night honoring DaVyne Johnson.

Bethel carried the offensive load throughout the contest, turning in her top scoring performance of the season and keeping Mary Baldwin within reach as the Falcons built and protected their advantage across four quarters.

Johnson also pitched in 24 points falling one shy of her season high. 

Pfeiffer established momentum early, using efficient shooting and interior scoring to build a first-half lead. 

Meredith would take a 37-27 lead into the half.

Out of the break, the Fighting Squirrels showed renewed energy, stringing together possessions that cut into the deficit while continuing to attack the basket and create opportunities at the free-throw line. Bethel remained the focal point of the offense during the push, converting key baskets as Mary Baldwin attempted to climb back into contention.

In the second half the Fighting Squirrels would outshoot the Angeles from deep, knocking in 11 shots from beyond the arch.

The tandem of Bethel and Johnson scored 34 of MBU's 39 second half points.

With 1:16 remaining in the game Bethel would knock down her eighth three-pointer of the game, a season high, trimming the lead to four. Following two made free throws by the Angels, Johnson would drain a fading three-pointer from the wing, bringing Meredith's lead to three.

Despite the second-half effort, Pfeiffer answered with timely scoring runs and controlled possessions in the closing stretch, preventing Mary Baldwin from completing the comeback and holding on for the victory.

The game marked the final collegiate appearance for Johnson, who was recognized in a pregame Senior Night ceremony for her contributions to the program.

Saturday's matchup also concluded Mary Baldwin's first season back on the court after the university did not field a women's basketball team last year. With the result, the Fighting Squirrels finish the season 3-21 and 2-15 in conference.

Notes:

• Leading Scorers:
  • MBU:
    • Lanie Bethel-26
    • DaVyne Johnson-24
  • MEU:
    • Skylar Setzer-19
    • Emma Baber-16
• Points in the Paint
  • MBU: 10
  • MEU: 30
• Biggest Lead
  • MBU: 6
  • MEU: 14
• Three Point Percentage
  • MBU: 37.8
  • MEU: 35.7