DE PERE, Wis. - Carroll women's basketball came up just short in a 62-59 loss to #3 UW-Oshkosh on Friday night, leading for good portions of the contest, and having two chances to tie the game in the final seconds.
Carroll (0-1) controlled the first half behind strong defense and efficient scoring inside. After a slow start, the Pioneers surged late in the first quarter and dominated the second, outscoring Oshkosh 18-6 to take a 35-24 lead into halftime. Anna powered the offense with multiple post buckets, while Emilie Wizner knocked down two big threes to help Carroll build its largest lead of 11 points.
The Titans (1-0) flipped the momentum in the third quarter, capitalizing on Pioneer turnovers and rebounding struggles. Carroll's offense stalled against Oshkosh's zone defense, managing just one field goal over a seven-minute stretch. Oshkosh cut the deficit to two by the end of the period, 44-42.
The fourth quarter was a back-and-forth battle. Oshkosh hit a three to take its first lead since early in the second quarter, but Carroll responded with hustle plays, including a Julia Lokker putback and two steals from Barger that led to quick scores. Wizner's deep three gave Carroll a 55-54 edge with under three minutes to play, but the Titans answered with timely free throws and a late bucket to seal the win. Carroll had two looks at a tying shot in the closing seconds, but both attempts missed.
Carroll shot 39 percent (22-57) from the field and 29 percent (4-14) from three-point range. Anna led the way with a strong performance in the post, while Wizner added three triples, including a clutch fourth-quarter shot. Natalie Gricius contributed key baskets and playmaking throughout the game, as the Preseason Third Team All-American had 20 points to lead the way for the Pioneers..
UW-Oshkosh shot 43 percent (21-49) overall and 41 percent (7-17) from beyond the arc, using their zone defense and rebounding edge to fuel the comeback.
The Pioneers return to action tomorrow in De Pere as they take on the hosts of the Nicolet National Bank Tip-Off Tournament, St. Norbert at 3pm.
