AURORA, Ill. – The Elmhurst University women's basketball team dropped its season-opener to Aurora University 80-75 at Thornton Gymnasium.

The Bluejays (0-1) outscored the Spartans 28-16 in the first quarter and were able to hold onto a seven-point lead heading into the half, despite posting an 11-point second quarter.

In the third quarter, there were three ties, but Aurora (1-0) held a one-point advantage, 59-58, going into the final 10 minutes of play.

The Spartans boasted a 10-point lead with 1:30 left remaining, but the Bluejays scored back-to-back threes to get within four points, before falling 80-75.

Four Bluejays finished in double figures including Taylor Harazin with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Following closely behind was Katie Matrise who chipped in 14 points, while Ella Riley added in 12 points off of four three-pointers. Safiyah Reed also posted 10 points and five assists, while Anna Kleszynski finished with nine posted and 10 rebounds in her collegiate debut.

Aurora was led by Macy Kocen who finished with a game-high 21 points and four assists. Crystal Rios added in 15 points and seven boards, while Talia Bee chipped in 13 of her own.

Elmhurst outshot the Spartans 48.1 percent (25-of-52) to 36.7 percent (29-of-79).

The Bluejays shot 40.9 percent (9-of-22) from behind the arc, while Aurora shot 31.6 percent (12-of-38).

Elmhurst looks to bounce back at the Beth Bake Classic hosted at Wheaton College against UW-Platteville on Friday, November 11 at 5:00 p.m.