Vanderbilt’s lacrosse team faced a tough 13-9 loss to Louisville at home on March 5, 2025, marking their third consecutive home defeat this season. Despite strong performances from Brooke Baker, who secured her fourth hat trick of the season, and Nancy Halleron, who added two goals, the Commodores couldn’t overcome Louisville’s offensive dominance, led by Rian Atkins with four goals and an assist.
The game started poorly for Vanderbilt, as Louisville controlled the first quarter, scoring four unanswered goals. Halleron finally put Vanderbilt on the board with a free-position shot late in the quarter, but the Commodores struggled with draw controls, losing all six in the first period.
In the second quarter, Vanderbilt rallied with goals from Baker, Molly Finlay, and another from Baker, tying the game at 4-4. However, Louisville’s Atkins reclaimed the lead with a free-position shot, sending the Cardinals into halftime with a narrow 5-4 advantage.
Louisville came out strong in the third quarter, extending their lead to 10-5 with goals from Izzy Seikel, Reese Whiteman, Lauren Figgus, and Atkins completing her hat trick. Vanderbilt attempted a comeback in the fourth quarter, with Baker and Kemper Robinson cutting the deficit to 11-9. However, Louisville’s Atkins and Whiteman sealed the victory with two late goals, ending the game 13-9.
Head Coach Beth Hewitt praised Atkins’ performance but emphasized the need to contain key players better. Vanderbilt will look to rebound in their next game against Arizona State on March 8 at 12 p.m. CST.