COLUMBUS, OHIO - The Capital University women's basketball hosted the Blue Streaks of John Carroll on Saturday afternoon in a matchup between teams with identical 10-2 (4-1 OAC) records. The Comets fought JCU to the final buzzer, but the Blue Streaks' efficient shooting and willingness to crash the boards allowed them to walk away with a 71-64 victory.

The tough loss drops the Comets record to 10-3 (4-2 OAC). The win makes JCU 11-3 (5-1 OAC).

HOW IT HAPPENED
Both teams showed up ready to play, with quick buckets coming from both sides. Cap got out to an early lead, but John Carroll was able to keep up and keep it close. After a strong defensive effort, the Blue Streaks were able to turn the game around in their favor. Some big threes from Kendall Spreen kept the score close to start the second quarter, giving the Comets some momentum. Despite strong defense from Capital, the Blue Streaks were able to get hot from behind the arc, ending the half with a 40-24 lead.

A rejuvenated Purple and White team would come out of the half, playing lockdown defense and forcing turnovers that turned into points at the other end. Laney Murphy came through for Capital in a big way to start the second half, hitting a big three and following it up with a tough layup. The Comets were able to close the gap, playing relentless defense and fighting for tough buckets. By the end of the third quarter, the JCU lead was cut to five points with a score of 54-49. Capital kept it close throughout the fourth quarter, but the Blue Streaks relentlessness on the offensive boards and efficient shooting allowed them to maintain their lead. Although it came down to the wire, Capital was unable to mount a comeback leading to a final score of 71-64.

THE NUMBERS
Samaree Perkins and Bri O'Connor led the Comets in scoring with 21 apiece. Perkins also pulled down a team-high 15 rebounds for her sixth double-double of the season, adding three assists, two blocks, and one steal. O'Connor accounted for eight rebounds, six assists, and six steals.

Laney Murphy finished with 13 points as well as two rebounds, two assists, and one steal.

Maddi Weiland would end up with three points, two rebounds, one assist, and one block.

Kendall Spreen scored six points.

UP NEXT
The Comets are set to host the Wilmington Quakers on Wednesday, January 15th at the Cap Center. Capital looks to bounce back against Wilmington who comes into the matchup 1-5 in the OAC. Tipoff is set for 7:00 p.m.