COLUMBUS – The Capital University women's basketball team suffered its first loss of the 2013-14 season Wednesday evening, falling 61-46 against Wittenberg in a non-conference game at the Capital Center.

The Crusaders (1-1 overall) were strong defensively, forcing 28 turnovers and holding the Tigers to 36.4 percent shooting in the second half. However, Capital was held to 28.8 percent shooting for the contest.

Junior guard Shelby Sheets (Fayetteville, Ohio) posted a team-high eight points to go along with four rebounds. Senior forward Jamie Caton (Hillard, Ohio) contributed with seven points and six rebounds.

Sophomore guard Nina Napolitano (Akron, Ohio) and freshman forward Jenna Erwin (Springfield, Ohio) posted seven rebounds apiece. Napolitano grabbed six of hers on the offensive glass.

Sophomore guard Simonne Gage (Dayton, Ohio) registered a team-best four steals.

Wittenberg (2-1) jumped out to a 17-6 lead with 13:46 to play in the first half, then extended its advantage all the way to 26-12 just under midway through the period.

The Tigers shot 48.5 percent in the first to take a 37-18 lead into the locker room.

Capital came out in the second half with defensive energy, whittling its deficit down to 14 following a Sheets free throw with 17:28 on the clock.

Wittenberg responded quickly, moving the margin back up to 21 after a 3-point play by Ali Miller. Despite the Crusaders forcing 19 second-half turnovers, the Tigers maintained their double-digit lead and hung on for the victory.

Capital resumes non-conference action Saturday against No. 8 Thomas More (Ky.). Tip-off is set for 3 p.m. at the Capital Center.