December 10, 2024 witnessed a heart-pounding game for Northwestern women's basketball. The Wildcats, with a record of 4-4 and 0-1 in the Big Ten, took on the formidable No. 23 Michigan Wolverines. It was a game that showcased the team's resilience and determination in the face of a tough opponent.

Northwestern's Basketball Battle - A Tale of Close Calls and Determination

First Quarter: Trading Buckets and a Tight Contest

The game began with both teams trading buckets, demonstrating strong ball movement. By the first quarter's media timeout, Michigan led 10-9, with Wolverines guard Olivia Olson due for a trip to the foul line. Olson hit her free throw, and the Wolverines started to gain an edge, generating easy baskets in the paint. With a buzzer-beating layup from guard Mila Holloway, Michigan finished the quarter up 20-13.The Wildcats fought back valiantly, showing their ability to keep up with the Wolverines. Despite the early deficit, they continued to battle and showed glimpses of their potential.

Second Quarter: A Rollercoaster of Emotions

The second quarter started with both teams going cold. With 5:50 remaining in the half, Michigan led 23-17. However, two consecutive NU baskets brought the game within two points. But the Wolverines then went on a 7-0 run, taking a 30-21 lead.As the half came to a close, the Wildcats responded with a 10-2 run, clawing their way back into contention. Entering halftime down only one point, 32-31, the team showed their fighting spirit and gave themselves a chance to come back in the second half.

Third Quarter: A Tight Battle Continues

Immediately out of halftime, Jones banked in her layup to give NU a 33-32 lead, their first since leading 9-8 in the first quarter. After bringing the score to 39-36, both teams went scoreless for over three minutes. With 1:26 left in the third, Michigan managed to bring the score within one point. But Lau launched a 3-pointer at the end of the quarter to give the Wildcats a 44-40 lead heading into the final frame.This quarter was a testament to the team's ability to stay in the game and make crucial plays when it mattered most.

Fourth Quarter: A Clash of Determination

The Wolverines swiftly reclaimed the lead and extended it to six points in the fourth quarter. NU retaliated with a 6-0 run of its own to knot it up at 50-50 with 4:15 left in the game. The Wildcats reclaimed the lead 53-52 off a three-pointer by Walsh with 3:36 left to play. But less than a minute later, Walsh was whistled for her fifth foul and was sidelined for the remaining action.After Walsh fouled out, NU only scored one more point - Jones' free throw. Meanwhile, Michigan tacked on eight more points to secure the victory at home.Despite the loss, the Northwestern women's basketball team showed great fight and determination throughout the game. They will look to bounce back this Sunday when they return to Welsh-Ryan Arena to battle Bradley.