A strong start and finish weren't quite enough for the Nipissing Lakers women's basketball team Friday night, but they are looking to bounce back Saturday.

The Lakers fell to the Carleton Ravens Friday and were looking to end the weekend on a high note when they entertained the Ottawa Gee Gees at the Robert J. Surtees Athletic Centre.

Unfortunately, the sharp-shooting Gee Gees spoiled the party, defeating Nipissing 91-51.

The Lakers jumped out to a quick start, grabbing an 8-6 lead through the opening five minutes of the contest.

Ottawa answered late in the first, turning a small deficit in to a 21-12 lead after the first quarter of play.

It was Nipissing's turn to answer, as they closed the gap and trailed by eight midway through the second, but the Gee Gees pulled away late.

After 20 minutes and at the halftime break, the Lakers trailed 42-26.

In the third, it was all Ottawa as they outscored Nipissing 32-13 and took control of the game, extending their lead to 74-39 after 30 minutes.

To close out the game, it was more of the same, as the Gee Gees cruised to the win.

Taryn Gauthier led the Lakers with 12 points, while Megan McCarter added 11 in the contest.

Nipissing hits the road next weekend for a rematch against the Ravens and Gee Gees, heading to Ottawa for a pair of road games.