DECATUR, Ill. – The North Park University women's basketball team fell to the Millikin University Big Blue, 82-68, inside the Griswold Center on Wednesday night. 

North Park dominated in the opening quarter, allowing just six points while marking 18 of their own to hold a commanding lead early on. The Vikings' offensive production came from sophomore forward Jayla Johnson and junior guard Zakiya Newsome, who notched four and six points, respectively. 

First Quarter: North Park 18, Millikin 6

In the second quarter, the Big Blue cut into the Viking lead. At 24-15 in favor of the Vikings, the Big Blue marked five-straight points to drop the Viking lead to 24-20. 

After a Millikin free throw, sophomore center Josie Summerville marked a layup and Newsome drained a 3-pointer to push the Viking lead to 10 at 31-21.  In the waning seconds of the second quarter, sophomore guard Lauren Lee drilled a 3-pointer as North Park took a 36-27 lead into the locker room.

Newsome led the Vikings with 10 points while senior forward Alisha Panthier led the Vikings with four rebounds.

Halftime: North Park 36, Millikin 27

In the third quarter, Millikin scored 10 of the first 15 points as the Vikings led by a slim lead of 41-37. The Big Blue and the Vikings next played a very close third quarter, showcased by 10 lead changes.

However, Millikin held the small advantage, 54-52, going into the final quarter of play.

Third Quarter: Millikin 54, North Park 52

The Vikings and the Big Blue played a close four-and-half minutes as the Big Blue held a 64-60 lead. However, Millikin pulled away late, taking down the Vikings, 82-68. 

Final: Millikin 82, North Park 68

Quick Hits:

• Johnson paced the Vikings with 21 points and eight rebounds
• Newsome followed with 16 points
• Sophomore guard Emily Czuahjewski contributed seven points

What's Next?

The Vikings (17-7, 10-5 CCIW) conclude the regular season traveling to Rock Island, Ill. to face the Augustana College Vikings on Saturday, February 22. Tipoff is set for 5 p.m.

--NPU--