River Forest, Ill. - The Concordia University Chicago (CUC) Cougars women's basketball team welcomed the Ravens of Anderson University to their home courts. The Cougars battled throughout a tough matchup against the Ravens, but ultimately fell 57-52.
Inside the Box
- Ai Yonemura (Yachiyo, Chiba-Japan) led the Cougars with 18 points, eight rebounds, and three assists.
- Grace King (Fairland, Ind.) followed with 11 points, seven rebounds, and one assist.
- Sophia Pedraza (Carol Stream, Ill.) scored nine points and tied with Abbi Dykstra (Yale, Mich.) with four rebounds.
Here's What Happened
First Quarter
Anderson scored the first couple of points in the first few minutes right after the Cougars had a great first basket from Dykstra, creating an early challenge to the Cougars. The Ravens gained an early lead by the end of the first quarter, with them leading 12-4, as Concordia attempted to come back but were unable to score.
Second Quarter
In the second, CUC reacted with greater intensity on both ends of the floor. King, Pedraza, and Yonemura contributed to the offense's basket scoring, making the Cougars come back stronger. Concordia kept the game within reach by reducing the lead going into halftime at 27-17.
Third Quarter
Both sides traded baskets, as the Cougars made the first basket, the third quarter continued to be intriguing. Yonemura kept up her offensive domination for the Cougars, making shots and taking down rebounds. The Cougars prevented the game from becoming out of reach even though Anderson held a slim advantage with a score of 39-34.
Fourth Quarter
In the last quarter, the Cougars pushed hard in efforts of catching up to their opponents. Yonemura continued to decrease Anderson's lead by baskets scored. As CUC tried to reach that gap, Grace King fought inside for those rebounds. Despite the effort, the Ravens were able to hold off the Cougars in the closing minutes with their layups and free throws, making the Cougars lose 57-52.
What's Next
The Cougars will be back at their home court on January 3rd, at 1:00 pm going against Wisconsin Lutheran College. Coverage for all things CUC women's basketball can be found at cucougars.com/coverage.
