KINGS POINT, N.Y. — The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy capitalized on a first-quarter surge to secure an 89-51 Skyline Conference victory against Purchase College Saturday afternoon.

USMMA (12-6, 9-5 SKY) opened the game on 52.6 percent shooting from the field and later erupted with a 62.5 percent performance in the third quarter, en route to its eighth home win of the season. 

Freshmen guards Emily Grasseler and Sydney Brown led the way for the hosts with 16 points apiece. Pacing the Mariner defense, senior forward Gabby Eitkis grabbed a game-high eight rebounds, while sophomore forward Hannah Ramsden produced a match-best four steals.

For Purchase, freshman guard Kaylena Phagnasay (Fresno, CA) lit up the board with 12 points, three boards and three assists. The first-year Panther also collected one block and one steal, while sophomore guard Charlee Neb (Longmont, CO) connected for 10 points, three assists and two boards. Freshman guard Halle Greaige pulled down the game-high in rebounds with five total. 

Up next, Purchase will travel to Patchogue, N.Y. to take on the Golden Eagles of St. Joseph's University. Tip-off is this Tuesday at 7 p.m.

For the latest news on the Panthers, visit the official site of Purchase College Athletics. Also, become a follower of the Panthers on Instagram (purchasewbb) and Twitter (@PC_Panthers), and "LIKE" Us on Facebook (@purchasecollegeathletics).