Blue Mountain, Miss.- In a gritty and closely contested SSAC matchup, the Blue Mountain Christian women's basketball team fell just short against conference foe Life University, 61–57, at Tyler Gymnasium. 
Both teams battled through momentum swings and lead changes, trading baskets and defensive stops in a game that featured numerous shifts in control before Life pulled ahead late.
The Toppers set the tone early, opening the game with a spirited offensive effort and attacking with confidence on both ends of the floor. 
Blue Mountain Christian found early success pushing the pace and establishing rhythm in the half court, using balanced scoring to stay in front through stretches of the opening quarter. 
Life responded with timely shots of its own, keeping the contest tight as the teams exchanged runs throughout the first half.
As the game progressed, BMCU continued to fight possession by possession, refusing to let the visitors create separation. 
The Toppers' defensive pressure helped limit clean looks and kept the score within reach heading into the second half, setting up a back-and-forth battle that carried into the final quarter.
Maddie Kirk led the way offensively for the Toppers, finishing with a team-high 17 points while adding seven rebounds in a strong all-around performance. 
Rebecca Walter provided a steady presence in the paint, contributing 13 points and pulling down six defensive rebounds. 
Off the bench, McKenzie Williams delivered an energetic spark, scoring 10 points and grabbing seven rebounds in limited minutes. 
Isabella Carlson helped direct the offense, adding six points and four assists while keeping the ball moving and creating opportunities for her teammates.
Blue Mountain Christian shot 45.3 percent from the field and was efficient at the free-throw line, connecting on 85.7 percent of its attempts. 
A final push in the closing minutes trimmed the margin, but Life University answered with clutch free throws and defensive stops to secure the four-point victory.
Blue Mountain Christian will travel to Nashville on Tuesday to take on Welch College.
 
 
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