Defense Fules Comeback, But Loggers Fall to No. 8 Pios

TACOMA, Wash. – After clawing and pushing its way back into the game, the Puget Sound women's basketball team fell just short of a comeback in a 70-64 loss to No. 7/8 Lewis & Clark on Saturday. The Loggers (9-8, 5-3 NWC) forced 25 turnovers from the Pioneers (16-1, 7-1 NWC) with 13 coming in the second half.

Jocelyn Riordan and Kelsey McKinnis combined for 18 of the Loggers 36 points in the second half to help fuel the comeback. McKinnis had a team-high 14 points while Riordan pitched in 12 points.

Kristina Williams scored 13 of her 17 points in the first half to help the Pios build a 37-28 lead at the half. The lead changed nine times in the opening half through the first eight minutes. Taylor Jones hit a three-pointer at the 11:32 mark to give the Loggers a 16-14 lead. However, Neva Hauser responded immediately with a three for the Pios as they regained a 17-16 lead, which they held the rest of the way.

The Loggers chipped away at the Pio lead in the second half, eventually cutting the lead to two points at 66-64 with just over three minutes remaining. The Loggers sped up the tempo and forced the Pios into a flurry of turnovers to key the comeback.

After the Loggers cut the lead to two points, they were unable to hit the equalizing shot as the Pios used free throws to put distance between themselves and the Loggers to earn the win.

Sara Villanueva led the effort at the line on 14-of-16 shooting to lead the Pios with 18 points.

The Loggers remain at home next week and will host Willamette on Friday at 6 p.m.