Katie McGrath and Veronica Dawson combined for 47 points as the Muhlenberg Mules defeated the visiting Penn State Abington Nittany Lions 81-75 in the season opener.

It was a chaotic game throughout, as both teams looked to push the pace and attack in transition. The Mules did a great job of sharing the ball, totaling 18 assists on 24 made baskets. Mia Fitzgerald led the way in that category with eight, often finding an open McGrath or Avery McNulty for three. Those eight assists represent a new personal best for the senior guard.

The hosts did an excellent job of stifling the Nittany Lions' first shot of a possession, but 25 offensive rebounds for the visitors led to 25 second chance points. That, along with 24 Muhlenberg turnovers, kept Penn State Abington in the game throughout; the largest lead for either team was just six points. Muhlenberg allowed just two offensive rebounds in the fourth quarter, however. Coming up big on the defensive glass was junior Lyndsey Costigan, who grabbed 10 boards in the final period and set a career best with 17 total. 

McGrath's 26 points also represent a career-high for the senior guard. In addition, she nabbed three steals and snagged four rebounds during her 38 minutes. Last year's rookie of the year, Dawson, matched a personal best with her 21 points. She knocked down all seven of her free throw attempts, including an and-one layup in the second quarter.

McNulty made her long-awaited return to the court after missing all of last season. The senior forward made an immediate impact, knocking down three three-pointers and setting a career-high on the defensive end with four blocks.  

It was the Mules' starters that carried the load in this game. They were responsible for 78 of the team's 81 total points; sophomore Erin Punter was the only one to come off the bench and score.