The Hofstra women’s basketball team has survived sloppy performances in the past, but couldn’t do so on Sunday afternoon, losing to North Carolina A&T, 63-44, at the David S. Mack Sports & Exhibition Complex.

“There were some things that, for us as a team, were just unacceptable and can’t happen,” said Hofstra head coach Danielle Santos Atkinson. “We’ve got to play harder because if we don’t, we’re going to see a stat sheet like this.” 

Hofstra shot 34% from the field in the game and didn’t have a player post a double-digit point total. Even with the poor scoring output, the Pride never gave themselves much of a chance, surrendering 33 points off of 24 turnovers. The Pride had a similar outing on Friday night against Elon University, who sit in last place in the Colonial Athletic Association. Against the top offensive team in the conference in NC A&T, a stat line like that won’t cut it. 

The Aggies shot nearly 50% from the field in the game and had three players score double-digit points, with center Jazmin Harris leading the charge with 16.

“She’s a big presence,” said Atkinson. “She works early prior to the catch, so she’s able to get deep seals on that catch, and she’s able to finish at the rim. She’s got great touch, she’s got great hands and she’s got the ability to knock down some jumpers.” 

Hofstra’s struggles underneath the rim weren’t just an issue on defense. Offensively the Pride were limited down low and didn’t attempt a single free throw in the game.

“Our emphasis is having a presence in that paint,” said Atkinson. “Getting that ball to the paint and attacking the paint to get to the basket. We have to be more physical and tougher.” 

Following the loss, Hofstra is now 1-3 against the CAA and 7-8 overall, with their next game coming on Friday, Jan. 13, at UNC-Wilmington. Until then, Hofstra will have plenty to work on. 

“If we want to win, we need to find a way to box out and rebound,” said Atkinson. “We have to find a way to come together as a team and play as hard as we can for 40 minutes consistently. We’re going to prepare and get after it this week. We’ve got to learn to control the controllables.”

Photo Courtesy of Hofstra Athletics/Lee S. Weissman