ROSEVILLE, Minn. - The North Central University women's basketball took on University of Northwestern - St. Paul (UNW) in a big time rivalry game Saturday night. Adding to the already stiff rivalry was the selection by the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) to feature the contest as their game of the week. Although the game was a tight one throughout, the Rams would ultimately fall to UNW by a final score of 78-69. 

Game Recap
After upsetting the Eagles of Northwestern earlier in the season, NCU was looking to sweep their rivals for the first time in program history. In the first quarter, NCU found itself knotted up at 13-13 with only a minute left before UNW would go on a 4-0 run to close out the quarter. Following a tough end to the first, North Central would immediately respond by cutting the lead to 21-23 four minutes into the second quarter. From there, UNW found themselves in the middle of a hot streak as they added a 12 point run to extend their lead to 35-21. The Rams weren't done though as they turned out a five point run of their own to close the quarter. 

Down nine points at the half didn't deter the Rams from coming out swinging in the third quarter, taking their first lead of the game, 38-37, on a four point run from Kadija Conteh with 5:30 left on the clock. The back and forth quarter would ultimately come to a close with the Rams trailing by only one point. With only one quarter to play, the Rams were determined to make UNW earn everything. The contest would go back and forth most of the quarter, seeing both teams knotted up with only five minutes to play. Unfortunately for NCU, UNW's Rio Landers would go on a personal tear to close out the quarter, ultimately leading to a final score of 69-78. 

Key Performers

• Allison Bulthuis led the Rams with a 20 point, eight rebound effort.
• Kadija Conteh poured in 19 points on 50% shooting.
• Naomi Hagstrom continues to post solid outing after solid outing, finishing the game with 17 points and nine rebounds.

Looking Ahead
The Rams are back in action at home Wednesday, February 5th as they take on Bethany Lutheran College. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:15 p.m.

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