Hailey Wexler delivered a standout performance on March 18 as the No. 14 TCNJ women’s lacrosse team defeated No. 24 Babson, 12-6, in Ewing, New Jersey.
The game was significant as it extended TCNJ’s unbeaten start to the season to five games and showcased the team’s defensive strength against a nationally ranked opponent.
Wexler matched her career high with 13 saves, helping anchor a defense that forced Babson into 14 turnovers. The Lions limited Babson to just one goal per quarter after an early surge by the Beavers, who scored twice in the opening minutes but struggled to find the net for the remainder of the contest. Kelly Nevins led TCNJ with four goals, while Marissa Lucca contributed three goals and two assists. CJ Kole added three goals and an assist along with seven draw controls.
Lucca and Kole also played key roles in disrupting Babson’s clear attempts, forcing turnovers on five of their first eight tries. After falling behind early, TCNJ responded quickly with goals from Evie Campbell and Nevins before Abbie Teefy tied the game late in the first quarter. The Lions took control in the second quarter, outscoring Babson and building a lead they would not relinquish.
Babson outshot TCNJ 30-25 and held a slight edge in ground balls and turnovers, but TCNJ was more efficient on free-position shots, converting five of eight opportunities compared to Babson’s one of four. Other notable performances included Ashly Herlihy’s career-high seven ground balls and Abby Williams’ three caused turnovers.
The victory marked only the second meeting between these programs; TCNJ previously defeated Babson in the NCAA Tournament in 2021. With this win, TCNJ matched its best start since opening the 2023 campaign at 7-0 and has now won its last two regular-season home games against nationally ranked teams.
TCNJ will conclude its four-game home stand against Roanoke on Saturday.
