BOSTON – Tipping off the 2019-20 season Friday at night at The Roof, the Boston University women's basketball team could not get past a seasoned Marist squad, falling 89-75.
Sydney Johnson shined in her college debut, pouring in team highs of 21 points and four rebounds. The rookie's 21-point night was the highest scoring output in a Terrier freshman debut in over 20 years.
Nia Irving started her senior campaign with her 16th career double-double, recording 12 rebounds and 13 points. BU's starting lineup all reached double-digit scoring figures, as
Katie Nelson tallied 14,
Annabelle Larnard posted 11 and
Riley Childs notched 10.
How It Happened
- BU and Marist exchanged baskets to start, with Childs making two straight jumpers before Nelson hit from deep to knot it at 9-all six minutes into play.
- Marist, who returned all five starters from a season ago, used a 9-0 run to close the opening quarter.
- Johnson converted from the free throw line to snap a 14-0 Red Foxes run, as the Terriers worked their way back into the game, trimming the gap to single digits thanks to a Childs triple midway through the second quarter.
- Irving and Nelson combined for the next seven points to make it a two possession game, 30-24.
- Johnson opened the second half with a 3-pointer en route to pouring in eight points over a three-minute span, cutting the deficit to 45-38.
- The freshman stayed red-hot, exploding for 10 points over the quarter, but Marist remained in control with a 60-47 lead at the end of the frame.
- Nelson and Larnard converted in transition, getting the Terriers within single digits, 66-59, just over three minutes into the fourth.
- BU stayed within striking distance as the rookie duo of Johnson and Larnard combined for 15 points in the fourth, but Marist used the free throw line to close out the game.
Game Notes
- Johnson's 21 points were the most in a debut since Kristen Sims poured in 17 against Kentucky in 2009.
- Friday also marked the first time since Feb. 4, 2017 where at least five Terriers scored in double figures.
- BU's freshmen combined for 38 points.
- Nelson played all 40 minutes for the 12th time in her career.
Up Next
- BU will open up a three-game road swing on Tuesday, Nov. 12 at New Hampshire.
- Opening tip is scheduled for 6 p.m.
