Chicago, Ill. – The Aquinas women's basketball team hit the road on Wednesday evening (Dec. 10) for a non-conference matchup at Saint Xavier, looking to build momentum as the season's midpoint approaches. Despite strong stretches of defensive pressure and a double-digit rebounding night from Paige Guernsey, the Saints couldn't overcome SXU's shooting and ultimately fell 69–40.

Aquinas - 40, Saints Xavier 69

Aquinas opened the night with energy, trading early baskets as Brynn Reams knocked down a jumper and Rhema Dozier attacked the lane to keep the Saints within reach. But as the first quarter unfolded, Saint Xavier found its rhythm from deep, hitting a pair of threes to take control and build a 19–9 advantage.

The Saints answered with one of their strongest stretches of the night in the second quarter. Leah French sparked the run with a free throw and a three-pointer, Isabel Reemsnyder followed with a jumper, and Dozier drilled a three to trim the deficit to 28–20. Saint Xavier pushed back, but Guernsey closed the half with a tough inside finish in the final six seconds. Despite the surge, Aquinas headed into the locker room trailing 37–25.

The third quarter opened with a quick five-point burst from SXU, but a strong take to the rim by Guernsey stopped the run. McKenzie Munson split a pair of free throws, and Dozier went a perfect 2-for-2 at the line to bring the Saints within 50–30. Dozier added two more free throws to close the quarter, but the Cougars continued to convert on their end, stretching their lead to 21 at 53–32 heading into the fourth.

In the fourth, Aquinas continued to battle. Madelyn Smith stepped in and knocked down a free throw, followed by back-to-back layups from Munson and Clemmie Gadwood to make it 57–37. Despite the late push, Saint Xavier closed the game on a steady run to secure the 69–40 final.

By the numbers 

• Paige Guernsey was relentless on the glass, pulling down a game-high 10 rebounds

• Guernsey and Rhema Dozier kept the offense moving all night, each handing out three assists.

• MJ Mikus found the solo block on the night and Dozier led the Saints with 10 points

Up Next 

The Saints will have another road game December 13th at 1:00 p.m. to take on Lourdes.