Women's Basketball: Grace 72, IU East 70

RICHMOND, Ind. - The Indiana University East women's basketball team opened the season with a 72-70 loss to Grace College on Saturday, Oct. 28.

In her first game with the Red Wolves, Taylor Ferris led the way with 28 points and four assists, while Davina Smith recorded a double-double with 17 points and 13 rebounds.

A NAIA National Tournament qualifier last season, the Lancers built 22-15 advantage after the first quarter on Lingle Court.

The Red Wolves were able to respond in the second frame build holding Grace to just six points as they scored the final 11 to take a 30-28 lead into the intermission.

IU East's third quarter was even better Ferris and Smith both scored 10 points as the Red Wolves were on top 56-44.

Grace answered in the final 10 minutes as the Lancers scored 16 unanswered points to take a 62-61 lead with 4:27 left.

Ferris was able to give the Red Wolves a 70-69 lead when she scored with 27 seconds remaining. From that point, Grace converted three of four free throw attempts to come away with the victory.

Next up for IU East is a trip to Illinois as the Red Wolves visit Olivet Nazarene University on Wednesday, Nov. 1. The contest gets underway at 6:30 p.m. (IU East time).