YORK - York University played a great game on Saturday night but unfortunately the Coyotes of Kansas Wesleyan were just a little bit better as they beat the Panthers 81-75. The Panthers jumped out early and led by nine points midway through the first quarter. However, the Coyotes made a comeback in the second quarter and took their first lead of the game with 6:06 remaining in the quarter. It was part of a Coyotes 13-2 run over the span of three minutes that took the Panthers lead away.

York came out hot again in the third quarter erasing their five-point deficit to take the lead 46-45 with 6:16 remaining in the period. That was the last lead the Panthers would enjoy as the Coyotes built their lead up to ten in the fourth quarter.

Kiara Pesina did everything she could in the final period scoring 14 of her game-high 29 points in the quarter. Unfortunately, it was not enough as the Panthers' rally came up short.

Key Statistics

Kansas Wesleyan scored 26 points off of the bench, while the Panthers accumulated just seven. York left six points at the free-throw line converting just 65% on 11-17.

By The Numbers

Kiara led all scorers with 29 points. Shawnau Johnson added 15 points, while Yionis Keith added the games only double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. The Coyotes had five players score in double figures, four of which were starters.

Panthers Leaders

Points: Kiara Pesina (29)

Rebounds: Yionis Keith (12)

Assists: Imani Honey, Yionis Keith (5)

Steals: Honey, Megan Mares-Torres (3)

York travels to Avila University on Wednesday to take on the Eagles. York currently sits tied for 8th in the KCAC with a 4-6 record. The Eagles are two spots below them with a 2-8 record.

The Panthers will be back in the Freeman Center on Saturday as they host Oklahoma Wesleyan at 1:00 p.m.