BROOKLYN, N.Y.— The LIU women's basketball opened up its conference schedule when it welcomed Stonehill to the Steinberg Wellness Center on Saturday afternoon.

The Sharks jumped out to 10 point lead at the beginning of the fourth quarter, but Stonehill just would not go away. The 10 point LIU lead turned into a three point deficit with just under three minutes to play.

A clutch jumper by Nigeria Harkless would give the Sharks the lead and free throws by Ashley Austin would seal the deal for LIU as they won 54-52.

Austin had a team-high 18 points and seven assists.

Mariah Elohim added an offensive boost, scoring 14 points.

Kayla Tilus lead LIU with seven rebounds.

The Sharks return to the court on Monday when they travel to Staten Island to take on Wagner at 7 p.m.