BABSON PARK, Fla. (November 22, 2022) - The Webber International University women's basketball team matched up against its first nationally-ranked opponent in the form of No. 16 Rio Grande University on Tuesday evening. The Warriors put up a good fight but ultimately fell short as the Red Storm took the victory, 84-71.

Both teams shot a similar percentage from the field although the Warriors (1-5 overall) outnumbered the Red Storm (7-1), 18-10, in fast-break points and forced them into 18 turnovers. Rio Grande, however, finished with more bench points as well as second chance points.

It was a competitive first quarter with Rio Grande taking an early 6-0 lead before Webber then pulled back within two points at 10-8. The Warriors took their first lead at 18-17 with just over a minute remaining in the quarter following a layup by Samantha Pacheco. The two teams were level at 20 apiece, however, heading into the second quarter.

The Red Storm shot 46.2 percent in the second quarter as they slowly began to build a lead. Tied at 29, Rio Grande went on another 6-0 run to establish a lead yet again. The Red Storm slowly extended their lead over the final five and a half minutes to nine at 48-39 at halftime.

The Warriors struggled in the third quarter as they shot just 31 percent and were outscored 19-15. Webber pushed to get back into the game but Rio Grande was able to hold off the Warriors at arms length to seal the victory.

Leading the way offensively for the Warriors was Jaida Burgess, Jermasia Klopsis, and Pacheco all with 15 points each. Burgess and Dasia Wandick both led the team in rebounds with 11 and both finished with double-doubles as well. Rushell Jacob ended with eight points and six rebounds to her credit. Defensively, Pacheco led the team with two steals while Triniti Lee ended with a career-high six blocks.

Next up, the Warriors travel to take on the Fire of Southeastern University on Thursday, December 1st at 6 p.m.