Caldwell, Idaho. – The Northwest Christian University women's basketball team suffered their first loss in Cascade Conference play as they fell to the College of Idaho 78-70 on Saturday night.

The Yotes took the lead with just over three minutes remaining in the first quarter and never looked back as they led the rest of the game. The Beacons experienced a tale of two halves from beyond the arc as they shot 11-24 in the first half and just 5-27 in the second. NCU struggled from the field just shooting 30.8% and 28.6% from three for the game. College of Idaho outrebounded NCU 43-36. 
 
Head Coach Chad Meadors stated, "Our team played hard but we were not at our best and the other team was inspired as they made some crucial shots and plays in both halves. In the first half our shooting kept us in the game when all our other facets did not. We struggled to make the extra pass and the extra play tonight that we need for us to be at our best. As the game wore on the other team continued to make plays, we would cut the deficit and they'd continue to make tough shots and plays to extend the lead. The past few weeks our growth has been positive, just wish we were able to win this one before we return home. After back to back long road trips what we need now is some rest so we will heal up and get ready for a couple games at home next weekend."
 
Morgan McKinney led the Beacons (10-3, 4-1 CCC) with 23 points, nine rebounds, and three assists while Aspen Slifka tallied 17 points and two rebounds. Kayce Mock added 11 points and five rebounds in the loss. 
 
Emily Harwood led the Yotes (5-10, 3-3) as she finished with 15 points and 10 rebounds while Mackenzie Royce-Radford added 14 points, five assists, and three rebounds in the victory. 
 
The Beacons will return home to host Warner Pacific University on Friday, January 10, at 5:30pm at the Morse Event Center.