CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (Interstat) — In a defensive struggle defined by missed shots and turnovers, the Harvard Crimson held off the Saint John’s Red Storm 61-56 in a women’s NCAA Division I basketball game Friday night at Lavietes Pavilion.

Harvard improved to 1-0 to start its season, while Saint John’s evened its record at 1-1.

The game was a contest of offensive inefficiency, with both teams struggling to find a rhythm. Harvard ultimately prevailed by capitalizing on opportunities at the free-throw line and by creating extra possessions. The Crimson shot just 20 of 62 from the field but converted 18 of 22 free throws. Saint John’s, which shot a better percentage from the floor at 21 of 45, was hampered by 22 turnovers and made only 9 of 17 free throws.

Harvard’s advantage was also built on the glass, where it secured 15 offensive rebounds compared to just 5 for the Red Storm.

The first half was a low-scoring affair. Saint John’s managed only 7 points in the opening quarter and trailed 26-23 at halftime. The game turned decisively in the third quarter, as Harvard outscored the Red Storm 21-19 to build a cushion it would not relinquish. The Crimson maintained their lead throughout a tense fourth quarter where both teams scored 14 points.

Karlee White led Harvard with 16 points, while Abigail Wright recorded a double-double with 11 points and 7 rebounds. For Saint John’s, Shaulana Wagner was the game’s high scorer with 19 points. Brooke Moore anchored the Red Storm’s defense, tallying 9 points, 8 rebounds and 5 blocks.

Harvard’s defense was relentless, forcing 22 Saint John’s turnovers and converting them into 18 points. The Crimson also recorded 14 steals, led by Gabby Anderson, who also pulled down 9 rebounds.

The game was played before an announced attendance of 658.

Saint John’s next plays at Quinnipiac on Tuesday. Harvard travels to face Michigan on Sunday.