COLUMBUS, Ind. – A career night from sophomore guard Amaya Collins wasn't enough to lift IU Columbus in its home opener, as the Crimson Pride fell 67–59 to visiting Saint Xavier (Ill.) Tuesday evening at Circle K Fieldhouse at NexusPark.
Collins poured in a career-high 26 points, knocking down five three-pointers and shooting 10-of-19 from the field to lead the Crimson Pride (1-3). IU Columbus controlled much of the first three quarters but was outscored 16-4 in the fourth, allowing the Cougars (2-0) to rally for the win.
Hadassah Hurt added 11 points on 4-of-9 shooting, while Abby Fleetwood nearly posted another double-double with 9 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists. Morgan Montgomery chipped in 6 points and 5 boards, and Jenna Bowers provided a spark off the bench with 5 points.
The Crimson Pride shot 40.4% from the field and 32% from deep, but 17 turnovers and struggles at the free-throw line (5-of-9) proved costly down the stretch.
IU Columbus opened strong in front of its home crowd, leading 34–29 at halftime behind Collins' hot shooting. The Crimson Pride maintained a narrow edge after three quarters, 55–51, before Saint Xavier closed on a decisive run.
The Cougars were led by Jaidn Green's 24 points and Brooklyn Johnson's 16, as the visitors capitalized on IU Columbus' late cold spell to escape with the win.
Next Up: The Crimson Pride return home this Saturday (Nov. 8) to face another non-conference opponent in Taylor University before hitting the road for a four-game stretch. IU Columbus won't play at NexusPark again until Monday, December 15. Saturday's game vs. Taylor University is set for 1:00 PM.
