FLUSHING, N.Y. (11/29/25) - The Franklin Pierce University women's basketball team opened play at the Knights Thanksgiving Invitational on Friday afternoon, battling through a tightly contested matchup before dropping a 54–49 decision to host Queens (NY). 

Score: Queens (NY) 54, Franklin Pierce 49
Records: Franklin Pierce (0–1), Queens (1–0)
Location: Fitzgerald Gymnasium – Flushing, N.Y.
Date: November 29, 2025

HOW IT HAPPENED 

• The Ravens struck first as Janaya Prince-Baquero finished a fast-break jumper just seconds into the contest, and an early three from Angelisse Meléndez helped FPU build a 5–0 advantage. Queens responded with a 9–0 run of its own, and the Ravens trailed 14–10 after the opening quarter.
• The second period saw both teams trading baskets, with Hijjah Allen-Paisley knocking down a three and Paula Falcón Luque converting a mid-range jumper to keep FPU within reach. Meléndez added another triple late in the half, but Queens carried a 29–23 lead into the break. 
• Franklin Pierce showed strong energy to open the third, beginning the quarter on a 6–2 push highlighted by Allen-Paisley's second-chance finish and a Meléndez jumper, trimming the deficit to two. The Knights answered with timely offensive rebounds and late buckets, extending their lead to 40–35 heading into the fourth.
• The Ravens continued to fight throughout the final frame, with Meléndez hitting her fifth three of the afternoon to pull FPU within one possession. Laia Llorente was steady at the line, and FPU repeatedly generated key defensive stops, but Queens held just enough separation down the stretch to secure the win.

BREAKING DOWN THE NUMBERS 

• Angelisse Meléndez led all scorers with 21 points, knocking down five threes. 
• Franklin Pierce won the turnover battle, forcing 25 Queens giveaways. 
• The Ravens shot 77.8% at the free-throw line (7-for-9), with Laia Llorente going a perfect 2-for-2 at the stripe.

UP NEXT FOR THE RAVENS: The Ravens continue play at the Knights Thanksgiving Invitational tomorrow, Sunday, November 30, when they face Molloy University at 1:00 p.m. in Flushing, New York.