Box Score

Despite a 97-59 setback against Taylor University, Tuesday night marked a milestone moment as the IU Columbus women's basketball program played its first-ever collegiate game. The historic evening at Taylor's Odle Arena represented the culmination of years of planning, dedication, and community support to bring collegiate athletics to IU Columbus.

Sophomore Abby Fleetwood led the way in the program's debut with 18 points on 8-of-20 shooting, showing promise as a cornerstone for the team's future. Fellow freshman Amaya Collins added 15 points including three 3-pointers, while Gwen Higdon contributed 12 points and 6 rebounds in her collegiate debut.

While the final score wasn't what the team hoped for against an established Taylor program, the night represented something much bigger – the birth of a new era for IU Columbus athletics. The Crimson Pride showed flashes of potential throughout the game, forcing 21 turnovers and shooting a promising 83.3% from the free throw line.

"Tonight wasn't just about the score – it was about breaking new ground for our institution," said [coach's name]. "Every player who stepped on the floor tonight will forever be remembered as pioneers who helped build this program from the ground up. This is just the beginning of our journey."

Taylor's experienced squad, now 2-0 on the season, demonstrated strong shooting with a 45.8% field goal percentage and 14 made three-pointers. The hosts controlled the glass with a 57-36 rebounding advantage, areas where the young Crimson Pride will look to improve as they continue building their program.

IUC will look to build on this historic first step when they return to action for their next contest. While the scoreboard showed a defeat, the night marked a victory for IU Columbus athletics as a whole – the first of many nights of collegiate basketball to come for a program that is just beginning to write its story.

The Crimson Pride return to action Saturday, November 2, at 3pm at Spring Arbor University.