By Jake Bilyeu, PLU Sports Information Student Writer

NEWBERG – The Pacific Lutheran women's basketball team took on undefeated and third-ranked George Fox Saturday at Wheeler Sports Center, and the Bruins defeated the Lutes 73- 41 in Northwest Conference action.

The loss dropped the PLU's conference record to 1-3 (5-8 overall), while George Fox improved to 13-0 overall and 4-0 in the NWC. The Lutes will have a chance to bounce back at home next weekend, as they host Lewis & Clark Friday at 6 p.m. on Military Appreciation Night before taking on Pacific Saturday at 4 p.m.

The Lutes took an early lead against the Bruins on a layup from Lacey Nicholson and a pair of free throws from Sarah Barnes to go up 4-2. George Fox took over soon after, using an 11-2 run to go up 13-6. The Bruins never looked back after that, although the Lutes finished the game with a 16-11 fourth-quarter scoring advantage.

Michaela Edgers led PLU with eight points and grabbed five rebounds, while Kaelyn Voss, Julia Berenson and Ionna Price each scored five. PLU out-rebounded George Fox 43-to-38 in the game. Justine Benner scored a game-high 18 points for the Bruins, while Matney Jamieson added 10.