JACKSONVILLE, Ill. – Illinois College came up short against Grinnell on Saturday evening at Sherman Gymnasium, falling 75–66 after a strong start from the Lady Blues.
Illinois College drops to 4-6 overall and 1-3 in Midwest Conference play, while Grinnell improves to 5-6 and 3-1 in the league.
IC opened the game with one of its best quarters of the season, shooting 47 percent and taking a 19–13 lead after 10 minutes. Grinnell chipped away in the second frame, but the Lady Blues still carried a 31–26 advantage into halftime.
Momentum shifted out of the break as Grinnell caught fire, scoring 27 points in the third quarter and knocking down three threes to move in front. The Pioneers continued their efficient shooting in the fourth, extending the margin despite several late pushes from IC.
Jayln Patterson led Illinois College with 12 points and five rebounds, while Cora DeSutter added 11 points, five boards, and a block. Raegen Stringer scored 10 points and handed out four assists, and Kylie Rakers provided a spark off the bench with eight points and two steals. Kaity Robinson chipped in nine points as IC's bench totaled 22 points in the game.
Illinois College held a 36–24 advantage in points in the paint and forced 20 turnovers, but Grinnell's 27 made free throws and eight three-pointers proved to be the difference.
Up Next
The Lady Blues are at home once for the final time before the New Year as they take on Beloit on Saturday at 3:00pm.
