UPDATE: In a nail-biting overtime finish, the Cornell University Big Red triumphed over the Le Moyne College Dolphins, clinching a 52-51 victory in Syracuse, N.Y. during their 2025-26 home-opener at Ted Grant Court on Saturday.
The game showcased fierce competition as both teams fought hard for supremacy. With this loss, the Dolphins now hold a record of 1-4 for the season.
Eli Clark, a sophomore guard from Oakhurst, N.J., was the standout performer for Le Moyne, leading all scorers with 17 points and shooting 4-6 from three-point range. Clark also contributed two rebounds and one assist in an impressive 39 minutes on the court.
Senior guard Sierra Linnin added 11 points, including her record-breaking performance that elevates her to second place on the program’s all-time three-point field goals made list, surpassing Kim Black (1989-93). Linnin also secured seven rebounds and two steals, showcasing her defensive prowess.
Junior forward Ashley Buragas matched Linnin’s scoring with 11 points and achieved her second double-double of the season by grabbing a team-high 10 rebounds, along with leading the team in assists with three.
Cornell’s junior guard/forward Rachel Kaus and sophomore guard Audrey Chen each contributed 14 points to the Big Red’s effort. Chen’s critical three-pointer in the closing moments tied the game and forced overtime, demonstrating her clutch performance.
The game began with Le Moyne taking an early lead, thanks to a layup from Buragas and back-to-back threes from Linnin and Clark, putting the Dolphins ahead 8-2. However, Cornell quickly responded, capturing their first lead at 11-8 and maintaining a back-and-forth battle throughout the first half.
As the game progressed, both teams showcased their resilience, with Le Moyne outscoring Cornell 7-2 in the third quarter to establish a 31-26 lead. Yet, the Big Red fought back, tying the game at 45-45 with just seconds remaining in regulation, sending the matchup into overtime.
Overtime was rife with tension as Cornell’s Jackson opened the scoring, but Buragas quickly leveled the game. Chen’s decisive three-pointer put Cornell ahead 52-51, sealing the Dolphins’ fate as they were unable to recover in the final moments.
What’s Next: Le Moyne will travel to Lewisburg, Pa. for a critical matchup against the Bucknell Bison, scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on November 25, 2025. Fans and players alike will be eager to see if the Dolphins can bounce back after this heart-wrenching loss.
This thrilling encounter underscores the competitive spirit of collegiate basketball, with both teams exhibiting talent and determination on the court. Stay tuned for more updates as the season progresses!
