Wilkes-Barre, Pa. (Nov. 22, 2016) -  Wilkes University (2-2) used strong shooting to guide it to a 76-65 victory over Alvernia University (0-4) Tuesday evening in non-conference Women's Basketball action at Wilkes.

The Colonels shot 48% from the floor through the first 20 minutes, knocking down 15 of 31 attempts.

The Crusaders battled with Wilkes from the beginning, overcoming a 9-4 deficit to take a 13-12 lead with less than a minute remaining in the first quarter. Wilkes recaptured the lead soon after, but Alvernia was able to stay within 2 through the seven minute mark of the second period. The Colonels then found a rhythm, pulling ahead to a 38-27 margin at the half.

Wilkes kept its stride through the third quarter, outscoring the Crusaders 22-14 to widen the margin 60-41.

Alvernia found its hot hand in the final quarter, outscoring Wilkes 24-16. The Crusaders cut the Colonels' advantage to 11 on four different occasions, but were unable to come any closer.

The Crusaders were led offensively by Maya Cooper, who drained 14 points. Kiersten Ingram tacked on 13 of her own, while Miranda Hoover recorded the first double-double of the season with 10 points and 14 rebounds.

Alvernia returns to next Wednesday, opening its conference schedule on the road with Hood College. Tip off is set for 6:00 p.m.