BETHLEHEM, Pa. – The Capital University women's basketball team (7-4, 2-2 OAC) took on Moravian (3-8, 2-2 Landmark) on Saturday in the Steel Club Classic Championship, pulling away with strong second and third quarters to take home the title,  62-45.

Samaree Perkins was named the Tournament MVP after putting up 14.0 points per game and 12.0 rebounds per game, adding an assist as well. 

Bri O'Connor was named to the All-Tournament Team for her average of 9.5 points per game, 5.5 rebounds per game, and 4.0 assists per game, along with three steals and one block. 

HOW IT HAPPENED 
It was a close competition in the early going as Capital struggled to find success on the scoring end, going 5-of-15 (33.3%) from the field and 0-for-5 from three-point range. As a result, the Comets found themselves behind at the first break, 15-13. 

Cap's offensive struggles continued in the second quarter with only two made field goals, however, the saving graces for CU were strong defense and free-throws. The Purple and White would hold Moravian to just six points while forcing 12 missed field goals, and also dropping in 9-of-12 (75.0%) from the charity stripe to claim a 14-6 advantage for the quarter. Therefore, heading into the half, the Comets lay ahead of the Greyhounds by six points, 27-21. 

Capital would extend the lead in the third quarter, outscoring Moravian 13-7 following a slightly improved 4-for-10 (40.0%) from the field. The Purple and White would put up their best performance of the game in the fourth quarter, shooting 8-of-16 (50.0%) overall and 3-of-6 (50.0%) from range. As a result, the Comets scored 22 points in the period, adding five to their advantage and ending up with a 17-point victory, 62-45. 

THE NUMBERS
Samaree Perkins put up another double-double to complete her MVP-level performance, scoring a game-high 15 points and collecting a game-high 11 rebounds.

Maddi Weiland and Bri O'Connor both had nine points. Weiland tied her career-highs in both blocks (6) and steals (3) as well as bringing down eight boards. O'Connor collected six rebounds with five assists, two steals, and one block.

Demi Brewer scored eight points with four boards, three assists, and one steal.

Laney Murphy came away with seven points while making two steals and grabbing one rebound.

Kenzie Weiland tied her career-high in scoring with six points. She also brought down two rebounds.

UP NEXT
The Comets will return to action on January 3rd, playing host to Wilmington. That game is scheduled to take place at 7 p.m.