DECATUR, Ill. -- The first game of a Saturday double-header had the North Park Women's Basketball Team (3-14, 0-8) taking on the Millikin University Big Blue (5-12, 4-4) in Decatur, Illinois.  This is the second meeting between the Vikings and Big Blue where the first one ended in a Millikin victory, the Vikings looked to get revenge in today's matchup. 

The first half of action was a neck and neck affair as the Vikings rode the hot hand of sophomore Caroline Long, who had 13 first half points to lead all players.  North Park never led in the first half but stayed within five points, ending the first quarter down 15-12.  With less than three minutes left in the second, the Vikings got it within one point at 26-25 thanks to sophomore Aliyah Hershberger knocking down two free throws.  However, Millikin would come back with a 10-0 run to close the half behind their balanced offensive attack, having five players score at least five points or more.  The halftime score was 36-25 in the Big Blue's favor. 

The second half saw the Big Blue continue their offensive success as they got out to a 53-35 lead by the end of the third quarter.  Nevertheless, the resilience of the Vikings showed true today as multiple Vikings found their stride late in the third and into the fourth quarter.  North Park would come as close as seven points, cutting down a near 20-point lead, with Herschberger finishing with 14 points after a five-point first half. Senior Evelyn Abundes and sophomore Jocelyn Chammas combined for 16 having 8 points each.   

Caroline long finished with 22 points, 4 boards, 2 assists, and a steal but it was not enough to overcome the deficit the Big Blue had in place, despite the collective effort late.  Millikin went on to win 72-61, handing the Vikings their 11th straight loss. 

What's Next?

Wednesday, January 29th, North Park will travel out to Wheaton College for a 7pm start.