Main Story

Marshall opened its 2026-27 season with a 74-70 road win over UMass in the MAC/SBC Challenge. After surrendering a 15-point lead, the Thundering Herd rallied in the fourth quarter and went 9-for-9 at the free-throw line to close out the game.

By the Numbers
  • Olivia Olson led Marshall with 17 points and 4 assists.
  • Kassie Ingram scored 15 points; Cassie Gallagher added 14 in her Marshall debut.
  • Marshall shot 47.4% from the field (27-for-57); UMass shot 37.1% (26-for-70).
  • UMass outscored Marshall 24-8 in the third quarter.
  • Marshall went 9-for-9 at the free-throw line in the fourth quarter.
Yes, But

Marshall’s strong first half built a 15-point lead, but UMass surged back to take a five-point advantage entering the fourth. The Herd’s late response turned a promising opener into a close test against a UMass team coach Juli Fulks praised for its talent and size.

What's Next

Marshall begins a three-game homestand Friday against North Carolina A&T at 6 p.m. at the Cam Henderson Center.

Bottom Line

The opener showed Marshall can recover when momentum swings: a composed fourth quarter and perfect late free-throw shooting secured a notable road win.