Coming off an impressive showing Friday night, the Nipissing Lakers women's basketball took on another nationally ranked team Saturday.

It was a second straight impressive effort for the Lakers, but they came up short again, losing 74-59 to the Ottawa Gee Gees.

The Gee Gees started the game off strong and got out to an early lead, holding on and taking an 18-11 advantage into the first quarter break.

The second quarter was big for both teams as they combined for 42 points – 21 each – heading into the halftime break.

After 20 minutes, the Gee Gees held a 39-32 lead.

Ottawa extended their lead in the third, posting another 18 points and push the advantage to 15 points.

After 30 minutes of play, despite a very strong effort, the Lakers looked to fight back in the fourth.

Early on, both teams were shooting well and had 13 points each just beyond the midway point of the quarter.

The Gee Gees did extend their advantage towards the end of the quarter and sealed the win late in the game, picking up the win by 15.

Natalie Martinez was excellent, posting 19 points, while Maria Walsh added nine in the contest.

Next up, Nipissing hosts the Laurentian Voyageurs Friday night.

Tip-off for the annual Shoot For the Cure game is set for 6pm at the Surtees Athletic Centre.