WASHINGTON – In its second straight contest against a nationally ranked opponent, the American University women's basketball team fell to No. 22 George Washington, 78-48, on Tuesday evening at the Charles E. Smith Center.

Senior Michelle Holmes finished with 17 points, five rebounds and three assists to lead the Eagles, who fell to 0-2 on the season, while junior Lauren Crisler added eight points.

GW (2-0) finished with three players in double figures scoring, led by Caira Washington with 21 points and 11 rebounds.

The Colonials shot over 62 percent in the first period, putting together a 12-0 run to pull ahead to a 24-8 advantage after 10 minutes.

American clamped down defensively in the second period, holding GW without a basket for nearly five minutes. However, the Eagles were unable to make much headway as their own shots were not falling, and the Colonials went into the locker room with a 34-18 lead.

GW led by as many as 32 points late in the third period after going on an 11-0 run. American got as close as 67-47 in the final stanza, but the Colonials outscored the Eagles 11-1 to end the contest.

American returns to action on Thursday, Nov. 19, for its home opener versus Hofstra at 7 p.m. Fans are encouraged to arrive early for a special pre-game ceremony as the team unveils the 2015 Patriot League Championship banner in the rafters of Bender Arena. The first 500 fans to enter Bender will receive a free commemorative 2015 Patriot League Championship mini-banner, courtesy of GEICO.

Tickets for the game are on sale now and start at just $5 per seat. Click here to purchase online or call (202) 885-TIXX.