COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA

The Iowa Western women's basketball team was riding high after defeating a top-ten opponent on Friday evening and welcomed in another top-10 opponent, the Hutchinson Blue Dragons on Saturday falling by five, 68-63.

Iowa Western, trailing by two at the end of the first quarter, fell on hard times in the second as they were outscored 19-8, and headed to the break trailing 38-25.  The Reivers used a huge third quarter to eventually take the lead.  Back and forth, throughout the second half, the teams traded buckets and eventually, the Blue Dragons used their clutch free-throw shooting to secure Iowa Western's valiant effort.

The Reivers were led by sophomore, Sommer Blakemore's 21 points while freshmen, Hayley Berfield chipped in 10. On the glass, freshman Bella Sparaco grabbed a career-high 11 caroms.  Keeping up with Sparaco was freshman Dustie Obah, who saw extended minutes for the first time this season.

Iowa Western will host a Thanksgiving Tournament, Friday (11/29) and Saturday (11/30) as they welcome Western Nebraska and North Dakota State College of Science to Reiver Arena.  Tip-off for both games will be at 7:00 PM.  Fans are encouraged to bring canned food as admission to assist the Athletic Department with their month-long food drive.