NEWBERG, Ore. -- Despite a resilient team effort, the George Fox Women's basketball team was eventually overpowered by the No. 19 Whitman Blues, 74-51.

How It Happened
Erin Yoshitake opened the scoring with a three pointer for Fox, before Whitman exploded with a 13 point run to pull ahead, 13-3. However, the Bruins bounced back with more three pointers, this time from Ella Roberts and Alyssa Wells to end the period just seven behind.

The second quarter was an extremely tight contest, as the Bruins matched the Blues in points scored, 14-14. Fox took advantage of every free throw opportunity while Kylie Ritter impressed with two jumpers and a layup in the final four minutes of the half, preventing Whitman from extending their lead and sending them into the half within striking distance, 25-32.

The third quarter proved tough for the Bruins, who struggled to contain a Whitman offense that began to fire on all cylinders. Despite Fox creating numerous attacking opportunities, the team found it difficult to convert them into points as the Bruins were outscored 19-7 in the period to trail 32-51 at the break.

Fox attempted to regain momentum in the final period thanks in part to an effort by Jenna Lacey, who put up six points in the first three minutes. Fox also managed to put together a five point run with three minutes to go, but two late runs from Whitman put the game away, with the Bruins eventually falling, 74-51. 

Top Performances
Erin Yoshitake and Alyssa Wells led the way for the Bruins, finishing with 12 points and 10 points respectively. Ella Roberts and Jenna Lacey each put up eight points, with Lacey also collecting a team high of seven rebounds. Defensively, Wells again led the way, with four steals and two blocks on the day.

Coach's Thoughts
"We allowed Whitman to control the game," Bruin head coach Lauren Howard said, "We have to continue to find ways to be the aggressors and make teams play fast and take tough shots. As a team we also have to get better looks and not play so sped up. Every game in conference is going to be a grind and you have to show up each night and play harder than the other team."

What It Means
George Fox falls to 2-11 (2-4 NWC), while Whitman improves to 11-3 (4-2 NWC).

What Comes Next
The Bruins will look to bounce back in their next home matchup against the Linfield Wildcats on Tuesday, January 16. The game is scheduled for 6:00 p.m.