CHICAGO, Ill. - The IU Columbus women's basketball team faced a challenging road test Monday night, falling to Saint Xavier University by a score of 91-61 at the Shannon Center.
Freshman guard Jacelyn Starks led the Crimson Pride attack with 16 points, including an efficient 8-of-10 performance from the free throw line while playing a team-high 38 minutes. Sophomore Abby Fleetwood added 13 points and collected 5 rebounds in 37 minutes of action.
The Crimson Pride struggled to find their shooting rhythm early, trailing 25-7 after the first quarter. Despite improved offensive execution in the second period, Saint Xavier maintained control heading into halftime.
Sydney Waldron provided a spark off the bench with 12 points on 3-of-9 shooting and 5 rebounds. Amaya Collins also reached double figures with 13 points while adding 5 assists in 32 minutes of action.
IU Columbus shot 35.2% from the field and struggled from beyond the arc, converting just 2-of-11 three-point attempts. The team showed persistence in attacking the basket, earning 32 free throw attempts but converted 21 for a 65.6% rate.
Saint Xavier was paced by Ryann Ogarek's 20 points on 9-of-20 shooting, as the hosts shot 44.4% from the field and knocked down 10 three-pointers in the victory.
The Crimson Pride will look to bounce back as they continue their non-conference schedule. They return to action, for their home opener, Thursday, November 14. Tip-off is set for 5:00 pm.