UNIVERSITY PARK, Ill. – Indiana Northwest couldn't overcome a slow start on Wednesday night, falling 96-70 to Governors State in a pivotal CCAC matchup that saw the RedHawks drop to third place in the conference standings.

After struggling offensively in the first quarter, Indiana Northwest (21-6, 14-5 CCAC) found its rhythm in the second half but was unable to erase an early deficit. Jessica Carrothers led the RedHawks with 23 points, adding four rebounds and three assists. Ava Kingery provided a strong outside presence, knocking down four three-pointers on her way to 16 points, while Alyna Santiago added 14 points and a team-high seven rebounds.

Governors State (22-5, 16-3 CCAC) came out firing, opening the game on a 27-6 run and maintaining control throughout. The Jaguars were led by a dominant performance from Zareia Chevre, who poured in 40 points on 16-of-18 shooting. Governors State shot 63.2% from the field and converted 17-of-19 free throws to seal the win and clinch the CCAC regular-season title.

Despite the loss, Indiana Northwest showed resilience in the second half, outscoring the Jaguars 48-47 over the final two quarters. The RedHawks improved their shooting percentage from 23.3% in the first half to 51.5% in the second, but the early hole proved too deep to climb out of.

Indiana Northwest will look to close the regular season on a high note when they return home for Senior Night on Saturday, Feb. 22, against Viterbo. Tipoff is set for 1 p.m. CT.

Recap by PJ Katona

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