Army loses in NIT, 55-46

BRONX, NEW YORK- Army fell to Fordham 55-46 in the first round of the Women's National Invitation Tournament on Thursday night. The loss ended a successful, yet somewhat frustrating season for Black Knights.

In the first the Black Knights, led by senior Anna Simmers who scored 15 points on the night, struggled from field goal range, making just 8-of-30 attempts. The Black Knights led as much as six before their poor shooting caught up with them.

Fordham took a 17-15 lead with 6:52 remaining in the first half and would never trail again.

In the second half Army tied the game on freshman Kelsey Minato's jumper, 28-28, but the Black Knights couldn't regain the lead. Army trailed 47-42 with 54 seconds remaining and was forced to foul. Fordham made 8-of-8 free throw in the final minute of the game to seal the victory for the home team.

The loss drops Army to 22-9 on the season.

The 22 wins was a positive for this team. The Black Knights beat Navy twice which is a super accomplishment. However, the upset at home to 9 win Colgate team quashed a chance at a home game match-up with Navy for an NCAA berth. Navy easily took advantage of the opportunity and will play in the Big Dance against Kentucky.

The future bodes well for Army. The Black Knights should return four of five starters next season and the success of the 2012-13 season coupled with hard lessons learned should benefit that team.