BOX SCORE

AUSTIN, Texas -- The Concordia University Texas women's basketball team fell to Concordia University Chicago, 59-55, in their first game of the Rudino's Holiday Classic at Concordia Fieldhouse on Tuesday evening.

The Tornados (4-4 overall) were unable to overcome a big 10-4 run by the Cougars (3-4 overall) to start the second half, which led to an 11-point advantage for the visitors.

Both teams struggled late in second half from the floor as each team had long scoring droughts.  The Cougars went almost five-and-a-half minutes without scoring any points, which allowed the Tornados to pull within two (44-46).  However, CTX went nearly four minutes without scoring a bucket, which occurred within the time Concordia Chicago was being held scoreless.

The Cougars were able to extend their lead back to eight points (44-52) as Kim Williams hit a turn-around jumper with 2:58 left in the game.  The Tornados would only get as close as five points in the game as free throws secured the Concordia Chicago win.

Junior forward #Jennifer Herman# and freshman guard #Brianna Smith# each tallied 11 points to lead Concordia Texas in scoring.  Smith also gathered nine rebounds.

Williams and Marche Smith each netted 16 points to lead Concordia Chicago to the non-conference win.

Both teams will continue play in the Rudino's Holiday Classic tomorrow.  Concordia Texas will play William Smith College at 5 p.m., while Concordia Chicago will take on McMurry at 3 p.m.