In a closely contested match, FIU's women’s basketball team faced off against Miami (OH), ultimately succumbing with a score of 62-55. The Redhawks from Miami (OH) took an early lead, which they managed to maintain despite a spirited comeback attempt by the Panthers. Key players like Lucia Fleta and Bineta Diatta showcased impressive performances, but it wasn't enough to secure victory. Looking ahead, FIU will begin their conference play with a challenging game against Middle Tennessee in Murfreesboro on January 2nd.
Game Recap: FIU vs. Miami (OH)
The encounter unfolded in a thrilling manner at the FIU arena. In the opening moments of the game, Miami (OH) quickly established dominance, racing ahead with a 7-0 advantage within the first five minutes. By the end of the first quarter, the Redhawks had extended their lead to 18-7, setting a tough pace for FIU to catch up. Despite this setback, the Panthers rallied in the second quarter, outscoring their opponents 16-14, reducing the deficit to 32-23 at halftime. Senior Lucia Fleta was instrumental during this period, contributing significantly with her scoring and defensive prowess.
The third quarter saw FIU continuing their fightback. Although the Redhawks maintained a slight edge, the Panthers launched an impressive 9-0 run late in the quarter, narrowing the gap to just seven points heading into the final frame. This momentum carried over into the fourth quarter, where FIU went on a 7-3 run, cutting the deficit to only three points with less than five minutes left. However, Miami (OH) held strong and secured the win, handing FIU their seventh loss of the season.
Senior forward Bineta Diatta led the charge for FIU, scoring 13 points and grabbing six rebounds. Fellow senior Aaliyah Pitts added 11 points and five rebounds, while junior Parris Atkins contributed 10 points and three steals. These performances highlight the resilience and skill of the FIU team, even in defeat.
As the new year approaches, the Panthers are set to face Middle Tennessee in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. This upcoming match promises to be a significant test for FIU, especially given Middle Tennessee’s recent success as the Conference USA champions and their NCAA Tournament victory last season. Fans can look forward to an exciting start to the conference season.
From a journalistic perspective, this game underscores the importance of early momentum and consistent performance throughout all quarters. FIU demonstrated remarkable resilience and nearly turned the tide in the final minutes, proving that every point matters. The upcoming match against Middle Tennessee will undoubtedly be a pivotal moment for the team, offering both a challenge and an opportunity to showcase their growth and determination.