JACKSON, Mich. – Macomb Women's Basketball nearly erased a 19-point deficit with a late flurry but fell short by a 72-66 final on Tuesday (Feb. 24) at Jackson College.

The Monarchs wrapped up the regular season 20-9 overall and 9-5 in MCCAA Eastern Conference play while Jackson moved to 18-11 overall and 9-5 in league play. The same two teams will meet at Jackson College next Tuesday (March 3) in the Great Lakes District A quarterfinals. The winner of the contest will move on to Mott Community College for the semifinals on March 6. The Great Lakes District A Championship is set for March 8. Great Lakes District A Championship Website

At Jackson on Tuesday, the Monarchs fell behind early as the Jets opened their Sophomore Day red-hot from the floor to take a 21-12 lead after one quarter of play. The Monarchs battled back in the second quarter, out-pacing the Jets by a 16-11 margin to trail by four at the half, 32-28. 

The Jets opening the second half much like the first and outscored the Monarchs 28-17 in the third quarter to take a 60-45 advantage into the final period of play. 

The Monarchs started the fourth quarter strong, scoring the frame's first 11 points to cut the lead to four with 5:34 remaining. The Monarchs would get to within one possession on a couple of occassions late and had a chance to tie in the waning seconds before a turnover ended the rally.

A'Liyah Forris had a solid all-around game for the Monarchs with 15 points, five rebounds and four assists. Hannah Tamou registered 15 points and 13 rebounds for a double-double while Janiya McWilliams had a 12-point, 10-rebound double-double. MyKenzi Harris recorded 11 points and six rebounds while going 8-of-8 at the free throw line. Vanessa Galovich netted eight points and grabbed eight rebounds. 

The Monarchs outrebounded the Jets 42-34 while shooting 37.7% from the field as a team.