Western Wayne Today

The Wayne State University women's basketball team faced a narrow defeat against Northern Michigan University, ending their five-game winning streak. The game concluded with a score of 66-61 in favor of Northern Michigan.

In the first quarter, Northern Michigan took an early lead with six points. McKenna Ferguson helped Wayne State get on the scoreboard with two free throws and a lay-up. Despite efforts from Taylor Thompson and Alyssa Leister to close the gap, Northern Michigan maintained a slight edge at the end of the quarter, tied at 17 after Annabel Ayrault's buzzer-beating three-pointer.

The second quarter saw both teams exchanging leads. Ayrault continued her scoring run with another three-pointer, while Sydney Whitehouse and Alyssa Hill kept Northern Michigan competitive. The half ended with Wayne State leading by one point.

Wayne State gained momentum in the third quarter as Gabi Lutchka assisted Shea Tripp for a three-pointer, giving them a four-point advantage. However, Northern Michigan responded with a 7-0 run to regain control. The quarter ended with Northern Michigan ahead by two points after a strong finish.

In the final quarter, Wayne State briefly regained the lead following a 6-0 run but could not hold off Northern Michigan's response. With just under five minutes left, Sarah Newcomer scored crucial points for Northern Michigan, helping secure their victory despite Wayne State tying the game late at 61 all.

Statistically, Northern Michigan outperformed Wayne State in field goal percentage but struggled from beyond the arc compared to Wayne State's better performance there. Despite out-rebounding their opponents significantly (40-30), Wayne State could not capitalize on this advantage.

Alyssa Leister led Wayne State's scoring efforts with 12 points while Annabel Ayrault contributed significantly from behind the arc and defensively. Shea Tripp was notable for her rebounding prowess alongside her nine points and assists contributions.

For Northern Michigan, Jacy Weisbrod led scoring alongside teammates Alyssa Nimz and Mackenzie Holzwart who also reached double figures.

Wayne State will look to bounce back in their upcoming away game against Saginaw Valley State University scheduled for February 13th at James E. O'Neil Arena.