WASHINGTON, Pa. — Transylvania University women's basketball opened its 2026-27 season Friday evening, falling in a tightly contested matchup against Washington & Jefferson College, 62-58, at Salvitti Family Gymnasium.
Mackenzie Lombardi led the Pioneers with 17 points off the bench, connecting on four three-pointers while adding seven rebounds. Riley Flinn recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Hannah Glisson added 10 points and three steals.
Transylvania opened the contest strong, shooting 54.5 percent from the field in the first quarter and building a 17-9 advantage. A three-pointer from Lombardi early in the second quarter extended the Pioneers' lead to 20-9 before Washington & Jefferson responded with a scoring run to take a 29-28 advantage into halftime.
The Presidents extended their lead to 44-38 entering the fourth quarter, but Transylvania continued to battle. The Pioneers scored 20 points in the final period, shooting 53.3 percent from the field.
With 1:13 remaining, Lombardi connected on her fourth three-pointer of the evening to cut the deficit to 60-58. Transylvania forced a turnover on the ensuing possession but was unable to convert its late scoring opportunities, allowing Washington & Jefferson to secure the four-point victory.
Nicole Mears provided eight points off the bench, shooting a perfect 4-for-4 from the field, while Raegan Barrett contributed six points.
Washington & Jefferson was led by Katie Kovalchick with 22 points and 14 rebounds, while Jaden Wan added 21 points.
Transylvania finished the contest shooting 38.2 percent from the field, with its bench contributing 25 points.
The Pioneers will look to rebound as they continue their 2026-27 campaign.
Transylvania University is a proud member of NCAA Division III and the HCAC. To keep up to date with all of Transylvania Athletics, check out our website at transysports.com and follow @TransySports on Instagram.
