The Baldwin girls basketball team fell to Shadyside Academy in overtime on Wednesday in their season opener, 47-52.

Senior Laci Bernontas said the Highlanders struggled in the first two quarters.

“We had five points at the end of the first quarter and then 16 by halftime,” Bernotas said. “That definitely pushed us behind.”

Baldwin needed to do better offensively against Shadyside, senior Isabella Niles said.

“We needed to make our shots and layups. They were crucial,” Niles said.

Niles complimented Shadyside for their game.

“Shadyside did well getting to the basket, and they also sped us up a lot when we needed to focus and execute,” she said. “We just need to improve on our shots and layups made and being able to run through plays.”

Bernotas said Baldwin began to improve their game in the third and fourth quarters. 

“We shut down their best player” through most of the second half, Bernotas said. 

Senior Isabella Niles shouted out Senior Jacey Klingensmith for helping keep the game close.

“She really stepped up and helped contest their post player, which helped change the game,” Niles said.

Bernotas recognised her sister, junior Lynsey Bernotas, for her play during the game, as she picked up 15 of the team’s 47 points. She added that senior Jules Ott also had a strong performance, with 11 points scored.

Bernotas said the team looks to improve communication.

“Sharing the ball more and being patient with everybody is really important,” Bernotas said.

The team’s next game is at 6:30 p.m. Friday at home against Pine-Richland.