HANOVER, Ind. – The Panthers (5-1 overall, 1-0 HCAC) opened Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference action on Wednesday evening with newest member Berea. Hanover defeated the Mountaineers 62-52.
 
INSIDE THE STATS
Senior Kaitlyn Lorenzi charted a double-double to lead the way for the Blue and Red, scoring 15 points with 11 rebounds. Junior Sammy Berman turned in a very balanced scoresheet, netting 19 points with seven rebounds, four blocks and three steals.
 
Senior Lily Ernstes finished the contest with 12 points, while senior Alexis Wines tallied 11 points with nine rebounds and four assists.
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
In a very competitive first half, Hanover was able to find success in their transition offense while Berea stuck to what they know, shooting 12 three-pointers in the opening half. The two teams exchanged points for much of the opening frame with Sammy Berman using an old fashion three-point play to pull Hanover within 15-14.
 
The second quarter saw the Panthers claim a slight advantage with Kaitlyn Lorenzi netting four straight points, 24-18. The offensive explosion ensued as a 6-0 run with scores from Alexis Wines and Lily Ernstes put them on top 30-21. Hanover closed out the first half shooting perfect from the free-throw line (9-9) for a 32-23 difference.
 
The offensive efficiency continued in the third period as the Panthers capitalized on second chance opportunities. Lorenzi dominated the boards, getting a key put back that gave HC a 44-34 lead. Wines followed it up with a corner three-pointer, sparking five straight Panther points, 49-36.
 
Berea found offensive success in the fourth frame pulling within 49-40 in the early moments. But Hanover was able to slam the door as Ernstes and Wines sparked a key run that propelled Hanover to a 62-52 win.
Hanover returns to action on Saturday when they host HCAC rival Franklin at 3:00 PM.