Blue Mountain, Miss.- Blue Mountain, Miss. – Blue Mountain Christian women's basketball took on a strong RV Loyola Wolf Pack squad on Thursday evening, falling 67–49 in SSAC play. The Toppers opened with solid defensive energy, taking their first lead at the 9:23 mark on a layup from Rebecca Walter before Loyola responded with efficient mid-range scoring and free throws to move ahead 17–9 after the first quarter. 
In the second period, BMCU continued working for clean looks, highlighted by a three from Kathryn Echols and a steady bucket from Dominique Collins, though Loyola carried a 31–18 advantage into halftime.
After the break, the Toppers found their best rhythm of the night, posting 17 points in the third quarter behind an active stretch from Maddie Kirk, who scored eight in the frame while adding defensive pressure with six steals overall. 
McKenzie Williams followed with a timely three and continued to battle on the boards, finishing with eight rebounds.
 The fourth quarter saw BMCU continue to push offensively, attacking the paint and creating late movement, but Loyola maintained control behind balanced scoring and consistent free-throw shooting.
Kirk led the Toppers with 13 points, 4 rebounds, 6 steals, and 4 assists, while Walter added 10 points on efficient mid-range looks.
Echols contributed 8 points with two three-pointers, Williams posted 8 points and 8 rebounds, and Isabella Carlson anchored the offense with 4 assists. 
Loyola was paced by Alissa O'Dell's 28 points as the Wolf Pack managed the tempo throughout the night.
The Toppers are playing William Carey at home at 12:00 PM on Saturday.
 
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