GARY, Ind. — The Indiana University Northwest women's basketball team came out strong in its Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC) opener but ultimately fell 97-68 to Olivet Nazarene, a team receiving national votes in the latest NAIA poll, Wednesday night inside the Savannah Center.

The RedHawks (1-5, 0-1 CCAC) started the game with confidence, shooting 58 percent from the field in the first quarter 25-21. However, the visiting Tigers (3-2, 1-0 CCAC) found their rhythm in the second frame, erupting for 36 points to swing the game's momentum and build a lead they wouldn't relinquish.

Senior Maggie Grady led IU Northwest with 20 points, connecting on five three-pointers while adding six assists. E.J. Brown-Griffin provided a strong inside presence, recording a double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds. De'Mour Watson chipped in 16 points and six assists, while Ava Kingery added four points and three assists.

The RedHawks will look to bounce back on the road next week, traveling to IU South Bend on Tuesday, Nov. 19, with tipoff set for 4:30 p.m. in South Bend, Indiana.