BOSTON (Interstat) — In a Colonial Athletic Association women’s basketball matchup defined by defensive pressure and offensive droughts, the Drexel Dragons grinded out a 65-56 victory over the Northeastern Huskies on Sunday at Matthews Arena.

The game was a stark contrast in offensive efficiency. Drexel scored its 65 points on just 65 possessions, translating to a solid 100.5 offensive rating. Northeastern, despite generating one more possession, managed only 56 points, struggling to an 85.3 offensive rating. The Huskies’ shooting woes were the story, particularly from beyond the arc where they connected on just 1 of 11 attempts. Overall, Northeastern shot 23 for 65 from the field.

Drexel, meanwhile, found its offense through its star guard. Laine McGurk, a 5-foot-10 sophomore from West Chester, Pennsylvania, delivered a game-high 24 points, adding five rebounds. Her backcourt partner, Amaris Baker, provided crucial support with 21 points, three rebounds and three steals. The Dragons shot 25 of 52 from the floor and 6 of 17 from three-point range.

Northeastern was led by Justice Tramble’s double-double of 10 points and 11 rebounds, while Camryn Collins contributed a team-high 14 points. Taylor Holohan added seven points, four rebounds and two blocks for the Huskies.

The most important part of the game was Drexel’s consistent ability to answer every Northeastern push with a critical basket, never allowing the Huskies to build sustained momentum or seriously threaten the lead in the second half. Despite Northeastern’s significant 18-4 advantage in offensive rebounds, which gave them repeated second chances, they could not overcome their poor shooting. Drexel’s defense, which forced 12 turnovers and recorded nine steals, consistently disrupted the Huskies’ rhythm and prevented any extended runs.

The Dragons also displayed superior ball movement, tallying nine assists to Northeastern’s six, with Júlia Garcia Roig of Drexel leading all players with seven assists.

With the win, Drexel improved to 13-7 overall. The Dragons have now won four of their last five games. Northeastern fell to 6-13.

Drexel next hosts Hampton on Friday. Northeastern travels to face Stony Brook, also on Friday.