GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (LourdesAthletics.com) – In a closely contested defensive battle, the Lourdes University women's basketball team came up just short against Aquinas College on Saturday afternoon, falling 55-51 at the Sturrus Sports Center.

The Gray Wolves struggled offensively in the first quarter, shooting just 11.8% from the field as Aquinas built a 12-5 lead after 10 minutes. Lourdes responded with a strong second quarter, outscoring the Saints 11-8, but still trailed 20-16 at halftime.

Both teams played evenly in the second half, each scoring 16 points in the third quarter before Lourdes made a final push in the fourth. The Gray Wolves tied the frame 19-19 but were unable to complete the comeback as Aquinas held on down the stretch.

Emma Pedroza led all scorers with a game-high 23 points, shooting 9-of-24 from the floor while also pulling down 11 rebounds for her double-double. Nadeen Jemaa added eight points, knocking down a pair of three-pointers, while Tamyah Worthy contributed six points and six rebounds.

Macie Stringfellow chipped in five points and dished out a team-high four assists, and Grace Ryan finished with four points and five boards. Lourdes forced 19 turnovers and collected 15 steals, with Pedroza recording a game-best six takeaways.

The Gray Wolves shot 29.0% from the field overall, including 23.1% from beyond the arc, while limiting Aquinas to just 31.1% shooting. However, Lourdes struggled from the free throw line, converting only 5-of-9 attempts.

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With the loss, Lourdes drops to 17-7 on the season and 12-5 in WHAC play. The Gray Wolves will look to bounce back when they return home Wednesday, Feb. 12 against Cleary University.