FORT WAYNE, Ind. (LourdesAthletics.com) -- Lourdes University women's basketball faced a tough challenge on Saturday afternoon, as a strong first-half performance by Indiana Tech propelled the Warriors to an 84-58 victory in WHAC action at the Schaefer Center. The Gray Wolves displayed resilience, particularly in the third quarter when they outscored the hosts, but the early deficit proved too steep to overcome.
Undefeated in WHAC play, the host Warriors set the tone early, racing to a 28-13 lead after the opening quarter. Indiana Tech continued to build momentum in the second frame, outscoring Lourdes 24-14 to take a commanding 52-27 advantage into the locker room.
Senior Emma Pedroza shined once again for Lourdes, leading all scorers with 23 points. Pedroza's performance marked her 11th straight double-digit scoring game of the season and her seventh outing with 20 or more points. She shot 9-of-20 from the field and a perfect 4-of-4 from the free-throw line while contributing five rebounds and two steals.
Despite a better showing in the second half, where Lourdes edged Indiana Tech 17-16 in the third quarter, the Gray Wolves could not close the gap. Oliwia Djya provided a spark off the bench with 10 points and six rebounds, her first double-digit scoring game of the season. Fellow reserve Alex Wolfe added seven points and six boards. Macie Stringfellow contributed eight points and a team-high seven rebounds.
Lourdes struggled with shooting consistency, finishing 37.1% from the field and 16.7% from beyond the arc (2-of-12). The Gray Wolves were also plagued by 15 turnovers, which Indiana Tech converted into 18 points. On the boards, Lourdes matched the Warriors in defensive rebounding but was outpaced in offensive rebounds, allowing Indiana Tech to control second-chance opportunities.
Up Next:
The Gray Wolves will look to rebound on Wednesday, December 18, when they return home to face Concordia University in a WHAC matchup. Tip-off at the Russell J. Ebeid Recreation Center is set for 5:30 p.m.
