Newberg, Ore. --- After two weeks off and three postponed games, the George Fox women's basketball team returned to Miller Gymnasium on Friday night. Against the No. 8 ranked Whitman Blues, Fox jumped out to a halftime lead before faltering in the fourth and falling, 59-66.

How It Happened

The Bruins thrived from the free throw line to gain an early advantage in the first quarter; Fox shot 10-12 from the charity stripe to help lead them to a 19-14 lead.The Bruin defense held Whitman to 0-6 from behind the arc in the quarter, while Alyssa Wells hit the only triple of the quarter for the Bruins.

Ella Roberts carried the torch for the Bruins in the second, scoring 7 of the Bruins' 15 points. After Whitman tied the game on a 9-2 run midway through the quarter, it was a Roberts drive and finish that kept the Bruins in front. Kaylie McCracken ensured the Blues were within firing distance, scoring 11 in the first half.

Whitman stormed back, ending the quarter on a 14-2 run to take a 45-48 lead. The Blues outrebounded Fox 13-4 to aid them in their comeback. McCracken continued her dominant game, scoring six more points in the quarter.

The Blues forced two turnovers to start the fourth period to jump out to a seven point advantage. From there, the Bruins gave their best comeback effort, but were never able to inch closer than five. Six turnovers in the quarter ultimately doomed the Bruins, as Whitman escaped Neberg with a 66-59 win. 

Top Performances

Jordan Ryan led the way for the Bruins with 13 points, including 5-6 shooting from the free throw line. Cassidy Posey and Stephens hauled in six rebounds apiece while Alyssa Wells led the Bruins with three assists.

Coach's Thoughts

Soon to come.

What It Means

George Fox falls to three games under .500 and is now 1-3 against NWC foes this season.

Up Next

Fox wraps up its home 'Whit' weekend with a tilt against Whitworth on Saturday, Jan. 22, with a 4:00 pm tipoff.