Box Score DEERFIELD, Ill. - In their final game before the Christmas break the TIU Women's Basketball team lost a close one, suffering a 63-57 loss to Madonna University inside the Van Dixhorn Arena on Monday afternoon.

Sophia Anaya once again was a catalyst on offense for the Trojans as the Junior rattled off 21 points while grabbing 6 boards to lead all scorers. Freshman Bridgette Smith had a solid game overall as the Freshman finished with 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists.

The Trojans found themselves in a battle from the opening tip in the first half, as neither side was able to grab a hold of the game. The opening frame saw four lead changes with the Trojans grabbing as much as a 6 point lead late in the 2nd Quarter. Late baskets from Anaya and Brookelyn Robertson extended the Trojan lead before the Crusaders were able to knot it up 28-28- before the break.

Madonna came out of the gates quickly in the third quarter, scoring the first 7 points of the quarter to take the lead, and would eventually take a 9 point advantage into the 4th Quarter. The Trojans fought back in the final frame, cutting the deficit to as little as four with 1:19 to play, but back to back three pointers from Madonna sealed the game and handed the Trojans the 63-57 loss.

The Lady Trojans will get a few weeks off for Christmas before returning for their first game of the New Year on January 3rd against Finlandia University inside the Van Dixhorn Arena.