GLENDALE, ARIZ. --- Yesterday afternoon the Trojans were back on the court after the holiday break, flying to Arizona for the first of two matches. For the first time in program history, the Trojans squared off against Arizona Christian University and hoped to earn a positive result but were unable to overcome an early deficit and fell to the Firestorm 52-70.
From the start, Trinity's offense struggled as Arizona Christian went on a 17-0 run. Daniela Lopez ended the run with a couple of free throws, her first points in what would be a personal record-breaking game for the sophomore. Before the first break, Trinity added six points bringing the score to 10-21.
Second quarter, the Trojans came back with an increased presence under the net, winning the battle for rebounds by nearly twice as many as the Firestorm with Breleigh Gula leading the charge with three rebounds. Gaining momentum, Trinity posted another 17 points while shooting over 40% compared to Arizona Christian just below 20%.
At the outset of the third quarter, Trinity had the score line within four points but that's the closest they would bring it for the remainder of the game. The Firestorm responded with another twenty points, despite the Trojans defensive efforts. Entering the fourth quarter behind 11 points, the Trojans tried for one more push with a couple of 3-pointers mid-quarter but it wouldn't be enough for the comeback.
Additional Game Notes
- Yesterday's match was the first meeting between Arizona Christian and Trinity
- Daniela Lopez broke 200 career points after a career-high 18 points. The sophomore from Leon, Spain also put up a season-high five rebounds and three 3-pointers.
- Breleigh Gula earned a season high five rebounds
- Ashley Geisler made a career-high two steals
- Carly Scheblo earned her second highest rebounds of the season with six
Up Next
The Trojans(5-8) face another first-time opponent, the Buccaneers of Park University, in a second non-conference matchup during their trip to Arizona. Tip-off is scheduled for 1:30pm MST (2:30pm CT) and can be streamed live on the Buccaneers YouTube Channel.
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Trinity International University is a comprehensive, national university affiliated with the Evangelical Free Church of America and located in Bannockburn, Illinois, 25 miles north of Chicago. TIU educates men and women to engage in God's redemptive work in the world by cultivating academic excellence, Christian faithfulness and lifelong learning.
