Morris, MN -- The North Central University (NCU) women's basketball team faced off against the University of Minnesota Morris (UMM) in a conference matchup this Saturday evening. Having the disadvantage of being on the road in a hostile environment, the Rams could not find the looks they were hoping for. It was a hard-fought battle, but NCU was not able to bring home a W resulting in a final score of ­­­40-57.

The game started in a heated battle between the two squads. Strong play on each end for both teams kept the game close through the first. With the largest point spread being just five points, both teams would continue to fight till the break as NCU took the 13-12 advantage for the quarter. Megan Salgado opened up the scoring in the second quarter scoring with a bomb from downtown. However, a balance offensive attack for the Cougars would lead to a 13-3 run to close out the second, swinging momentum in the oppositions' favor. Heading into the break, Morris led 29-20.

As the second half set underway, NCU forwards Kaitlyn VanderPloeg and Kayla Hola made an apparent effort to get rolling with some aggressive takes in the paint. The Cougars responded with the same fire and even more execution as NCU's deficit began to increase. Three point shooting was a struggle for the Blue and Gold in this quarter, going 0-8 from deep. With a much-needed quarter reset, Kayla Hola owned the paint with her second double-double performance against UMM on the season. Despite her tenacious effort, Downtown U was not able to get the lid off the basket. Morris managed to be the only ones scoring for the final seven minutes of the game. UMM closed out the contest with a score of 57-40.
 
Top Performers:

Kayla Hola (Bastrop, TX): 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 blocks
Joelle Talso (Ramsey, MN): 8 points and 11 rebounds
 
Looking Ahead:

North Central will take home-court advantage next weekend against UW-Superior and Northland College. Friday's contest will be at 7:15 p.m. and then 4:45 p.m. on Saturday.

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