They knew they would be in tough, but the Nipissing Lakers women's basketball still had a tough start to the New Year.

The Lakers faced one of the top teams in the OUA and after a strong opening few minutes, struggled on their way to an 89-36 loss.

McMaster was lights out from the three-point line and took advantage of their hot shooting, putting up 40 points in the first half as they cruised to their seventh win of the season.

After closing the first quarter up 15, McMaster opened up their offensive game, scoring another 18 points, but also clamped down defensively, allowing just a single Lakers points, as they extended their lead.

In the second half, it was a much more effective attack for Nipissing, as they posted 28 points, but by that point, it was too little and too late, as McMaster continued their impressive offensive game, scoring 49 more points.

The Lakers were outscored 23-11 in the third and 26-17 in the final frame, as they dropped their opening game of the second half of the season.

Claire Abbott had 14 points to lead the Lakers, while Jamie Soffer added eight and Mackenzie Bahm had six.

Points from the bench was a big key to McMasters win, as they scored 39 points from non-starters, compared to just five from Nipissing.

The Lakers will look to rebound Saturday as they host the Brock Badgers at the RJS Athletic Centre.

Tip-off is schedule for 6pm.