Superior, WI -- The North Central University (NCU) women's basketball hit the Road Saturday for another conference matchup, squaring off against a physical University of Wisconsin-Superior (UWS) Yellowjacket squad inside Mertz Mortorelli Gymnasium. Coming off a battle-tested loss earlier in the week, the Rams looked to build momentum and get back into the win column in conference. However, North Central struggled to score offensively in a hostile road environment. Senior guard Lydia Schroeder was a bright spot for NCU, posting a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds.

North Central settled in early and battled through a back-and-forth opening quarter. Junior guard NiNi Davenport knocked down an early three to help the Rams respond to an initial run, while senior forward Moriah McLendon provided interior scoring and activity on the glass. The Rams showed patience offensively and stayed composed defensively, forcing multiple early turnovers and keeping the game within reach. North Central trailed narrowly at 16-14 by the end of the opening frame.

NCU found a rhythm early in the second quarter, briefly taking control behind efficient shooting and strong rebounding. Senior guard Brycelyn Brewster buried a key three-pointer to give the Rams their first lead, and Lydia Schroeder went a perfect 3-for-3 from the free-throw line to steady the offense. Davenport added another triple during a strong stretch where North Central moved the ball well and created quality looks. Despite solid stretches on both ends, the Rams entered halftime trailing 31-24 after a late run.

The Rams came out of the locker room with renewed energy, posting their highest-scoring quarter of the game. Davenport sparked the offense with a three-pointer early in the period, while senior guard Jackie Lindsay added a triple of her own to keep the Rams within striking distance. Schroeder continued her strong all-around play, knocking down another three and controlling the glass. North Central shot over 57% from beyond the arc in the third quarter, but a late surge by the Yellowjackets extended the margin. NCU headed to the final quarter down 53-41.

North Central continued to fight in the final ten minutes, refusing to go away quietly. McLendon battled inside for multiple second-chance opportunities, finishing through contact and converting at the free-throw line. Brewster added timely baskets and playmaking, while Davenport capped the afternoon with another late three-pointer. The Rams outscored the opposition 15-13 in the fourth quarter, showcasing resilience and effort until the final buzzer. Despite the push, North Central fell 66-56.

Top Performers: 

• NiNi Davenport: 14 points and 4 three-pointers
• Lydia Schroeder: 12 points and 10 rebounds
• Moriah McLendon: 12 points and 5 rebounds
• Brycelyn Brewster: 10 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals

Looking Ahead:

Up next, North Central returns to home hardwood for a UMAC matchup against the Crown College Polars on Saturday, February 7th. Tip-off is set for 3:00 PM inside Clark-Danielson Gymnasium in Minneapolis, MN.

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