MONMOUTH, Ore. -- Though the George Fox women's basketball team continued to flex their strong defense — holding an undefeated Western Oregon team 35 points below their average — the offense showed growing pains in their 33-50 loss to the Wolves. 

How It Happened
Western Oregon struck first in the first quarter, building up a solid lead through much of the quarter. However, the Bruins made a late surge at the end, cutting the lead to six after the first.
Fox drew within five to begin the second quarter, though the Wolves extended their lead once again as the quarter wound down. Once again, the Bruins closed the quarter strong, with buckets from Erin Yoshitake and Alyssa Wells to close the lead to nine. 

Facing a large deficit, the Bruins tried to mount a comeback. Though they scored early, Western Oregon was able to retain their lead, and though they outscored WOU 5-2 in the final five minutes — a testament to the defensive nature of the game — they were unable to bring themselves within striking distance. 

The Bruins were unable to cut into the WO lead. After scoring twice to start the quarter, Fox was unable to gain momentum as the Wolves pulled away in a 33-50 loss.

Top Performers
Alyssa Wells led the offense for the Bruins, scoring eight points to go along with two assists. On defense, Jaela Eggers chipped in two steals, while Jenna Lacey and Ela Roberts each contributed two blocks.              

Coach's Thoughts
"We held a solid Western team to 50 points tonight," Bruin head coach Lauren Howard said, "Our defense was great for the majority of the game. Little breakdowns down the stretch and fatigue got the better of us tonight. These last games have been a great challenge for us and have allowed us to get better each day. This group is tough and works super hard, I have no doubt that we will bounce back and have some solid practices heading into the first weekend of conference games."

What It Means
The Bruins drop to 0-2 on the season after two non conference games to open up the season. Western Oregon improves to 3-0.

Whats Next
After over two weeks off, the Bruins will take on the Lewis & Clark Pioneers in their first NWC game of the season on Friday, December 1st, in Portland, Ore.