## **No. 21 Women’s Lacrosse Faces Off Against No. 24 Harvard in a Must-Watch Showdown**
**PROVIDENCE, R.I.** – The excitement is palpable as the **No. 21 Brown women’s lacrosse team** (6-2, 1-1 Ivy League) is set to host the **No. 24 Harvard Crimson** (6-3, 1-1 Ivy League) this Saturday at **1:00 p.m.** on **Stevenson-Pincince Field**. Mark your calendars, lace-up your sneakers, and be ready for an action-packed afternoon filled with camaraderie, competition, and, of course, thrilling lacrosse!
### **Catch the Action Live**
This highly anticipated matchup will be broadcast live on **ESPN+** and **NESN+**, making it easy for fans to catch every exhilarating moment from the comfort of their homes. Additionally, this event serves as the **Bears’ Faculty & Staff Appreciation Game**, where the athletic department honors those who contribute to the academic and social fabric of the Brown community.
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### **A Glance Back: Last Time Out**
In a stunning display of skill, **Brown** triumphed over the then **No. 7 Yale** last March 22, securing a **14-11 victory**—marking only the second win against a top-10 opponent in program history and their first victory over Yale since 2019. This victory has undoubtedly fueled the Bears’ momentum, igniting a newfound energy within the team.
### **National Attention: Climbing the Ranks**
Following this spectacular win, the Bears have ascended to **No. 21** in the **IL Women’s national poll** and **No. 24** in the **ILWCA poll**. They are also under consideration in the **USA Lacrosse top 20 poll**, reinforcing their status as a formidable force in collegiate lacrosse.
In recognition of her outstanding performances, **Annie Burton** has been named to the **Tewaaraton Award Watch List**. She joins an esteemed group of Bears, including **Mia Mascone** and **Risa Mosenthal**, both of whom made appearances on this celebrated list in the past.
### **A Perfect Week: Double Honor for Burton and Mahoney**
Earlier this week, Burton was honored as the **Ivy League Offensive Player of the Week** after showcasing her remarkable talent with **three goals** and **four assists** against Yale. **Claire Mahoney**, who impressed with a stellar performance in goal, was recognized as the **Ivy League Defensive Player of the Week**.
Mahoney stepped up big-time against Yale, saving **10 of 18 shots faced** and helping shift the momentum back to the Bears after entering the game in the first quarter. Her **6.77 goals against average** and **.479 save percentage** put her among the top keepers in the Ivy League, demonstrating resilience and skill under pressure.
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### **Scouting the Bears: A Glimpse at the Game Plan**
The Bears boast a **3-1 record** at Stevenson-Pincince Field this season, including an **undefeated** **1-0** start in Ivy League play at home. With an *impressive average of 15.25 goals per game* over their four home contests, Brown’s offensive capabilities are on brilliant display.
Currently, Brown ranks **second in the nation** for **assists per game** (9.50) and **third nationally** for total points (25.50). Adding to their prowess, the Bears’ **16.0 goals per game** ranks **seventh in the nation**, underscoring their offensive might, while their **17.13 draw controls per game** holds a **sixth place** national ranking.
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### **Scouting Harvard: A Competitive Foe**
On the flip side, Harvard arrives fresh off a commanding **23-12 victory over Bryant** on March 24, with their lone Ivy League win secured against Dartmouth on March 16. The Crimson have shown they can compete with ranked opponents, posting wins over **Navy** and **UConn**, albeit stumbling against **Princeton**.
Statistically, Harvard shines defensively, leading the Ivy League and ranking **seventh nationally** with an average of **11.58 caused turnovers** per game. **Despina Giannakopoulos** excels in this regard, leading the Ivy League with **2.56 caused turnovers per game**. On the offensive front, **Caroline Mullahy** ranks **15th nationally** with **28 total assists**, showcasing Harvard’s depth and versatility.
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### **Historical Context: A Rivalry Revisited**
The historical rivalry skews in favor of Harvard, leading the all-time series **35-13**. Brown faces a significant challenge, having previously lost to the Crimson under head coach **Katrina Dowd**. But statistics are just numbers; it’s the heart and determination displayed on the field that ultimately defines this matchup.
### **Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Bears?**
After facing off against Harvard, Brown will be gearing up to meet their fourth consecutive ranked opponent when they travel to **No. 12 Duke** on **Tuesday, April 1** at 1:00 p.m. Each game presents an opportunity for the Bears to prove their mettle and solidify their standing in the national landscape.
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Join us this Saturday at Stevenson-Pincince Field to cheer on the Bears as they battle the Crimson in what promises to be an **epic showdown**. Your support makes a difference—let’s pack the stands and rally behind our team!
### **Stay Connected with Brown Athletics**
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Together, let’s support our Bears as they take to the field and aim for victory!
