WHITEWATER, Wis. – Carroll University women's basketball dropped a hard-fought nonconference matchup to UW-Whitewater on Wednesday evening, falling 73-62 at Kachel Gymnasium. The Pioneers move to 2-2 on the season.

Carroll came out strong, shooting 55.6 percent in the opening quarter to build a 22-16 lead. Senior forward Natalie Gricius powered the early surge, scoring 13 points in the first 10 minutes. The Warhawks responded in the second quarter, outscoring Carroll 17-7 to take a 33-29 lead into halftime.

The third quarter featured back-and-forth action as Carroll briefly regained the lead behind Gricius and Julia Lokker, but Whitewater closed the period ahead 50-47. The Warhawks pulled away in the fourth with a 23-15 advantage, fueled by timely shooting and defensive stops.

Gricius led all scorers with 29 points, shooting 11-of-16 from the field and 5-of-5 at the line, while adding five rebounds. Lokker chipped in nine points and three assists, and Kacy Kratz added seven points and five boards. Carroll finished the night shooting 41.8 percent overall but struggled from deep (3-of-18).

Whitewater (4-0) was paced by Renee Rittmeyer with 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Mia Gillis added 16 points and seven boards. The Warhawks shot 45.6 percent and converted 14-of-19 free throws.

Carroll returns to action on Saturday, Nov. 22, hosting Wartburg at Van Male Fieldhouse. Tip-off is set for 2pm.