Box Score BELOIT, Wisc. -- North Central University (NCU) women's basketball was back in action tonight against the Bucs of Beloit College for a tough road, non-conference matchup. The game would see both teams go on large scoring runs, but ultimately was decided at the free throw line as the Rams were knocked off by a final score of 61-70. With the loss, North Central now falls to 4-6 headed into Christmas break.

Game Recap

NCU entered the contest on short rest having played NCAA division two Upper Iowa on Monday, however, they showed tremendous poise and determination throughout the contest. In the first quarter, Beloit jumped out to a quick 23-9 lead as Kelly Loudon powered the bucs with 11 points. North Central struggled to connect in the quarter, going 3-18 from the field and 1-9 from downtown. Tough shooting woes weren't enough to deter the Rams though as they dialed up the defensive pressure in the second quarter and shot a blistering 10-16 from the field to carry a two point lead into the half. During the hot second quarter, North Central saw six different Rams contribute on the scoring end. In the second half, NCU found themselves in a tough battle throughout. North Central would find themselves up two after the third quarter, one in which both teams scored at a brisk clip. For North Central, Jocelyn Talso and Alice Cato would both pace the Rams third quarter with great shooting. Ultimately, the fourth quarter found NCU just running out of time at the end, having to resort to fouling to try and get back into the game. North Central was down only two points with less than three minutes remaining before Beloit made one final push to close out the game. In a tough road environment, North Central certainly showed that they have the ability to compete with anyone.

Key Performers

• Sophomore Naomi Hagstrom ended with her first double-double of the season, recording 18 points and 11 rebounds while shooting 50% from the field. 
• Junior Allison Bulthuis finished with 13 points and 10 rebounds, hitting three 3pt attempts during the contest.

Looking Ahead

North Central has a long Christmas break before they return to action on January 6th versus Mount Mary University. The second semester home opener tip-off is slated for 6:00 p.m. 

Media: For further information, contact Mike Knipe at 612-343-3541 or email mjknipe@northcentral.edu.