SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. — The Davenport Panthers battled through nine ties Thursday evening but ultimately fell to Lake Superior State, 74-67, at the James Norris Center.

Davenport came out looking to push the tempo offensively, with Anna Axtell knocking down a fast-break three-pointer at the 8:19 mark of the first quarter to even the score early. Despite hitting a pair of triples in the opening frame, the Panthers committed five turnovers that Lake Superior State converted into points, helping the Lakers build a 20-10 lead after one quarter.

The Panthers responded in the second behind strong defensive pressure and efficient scoring. Ellie Toney sparked the offense with a three-pointer and two free throws, while Nevaeh Williams closed the half with a fast-break three-pointer in the final 25 seconds. Davenport outscored Lake State 20-15 in the quarter to trim the deficit to 35-30 at halftime.

In the third quarter, Williams connected from deep at the 9:07 mark off an assist from Maddie Geers to keep the Panthers within reach. Toney's steady presence at the free-throw line proved pivotal, including two makes with 20 seconds left that tied the game at 50 entering the fourth.

The final quarter featured multiple momentum swings. Geers tied the game at 55 with a three-pointer at 8:46 before Toney gave Davenport a brief 57-55 advantage on a layup. Williams later buried a clutch three-pointer with 3:03 remaining to tie the contest at 67. However, six fourth-quarter turnovers allowed Lake Superior State to capitalize down the stretch, securing the 74-67 victory at the line.


Davenport Top Performers  
Nevaeh Williams  
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- 15 points  
- 3 3-pointers  
- 3 assists  
- 4 rebounds  

Ellie Toney  
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- 25 points  
- 3 3-pointers  
- 12/14 free throws made  
- 4 rebounds  

Maddie Geers  
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- 13 points  
- 4/4 free throws made  
- 6 rebounds  

Reese Polega  
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- 7 rebounds  
- 1 block  

Davenport will look to bounce back Saturday, February 21, when it hosts Saginaw Valley State at 1 p.m.