ELMHURST, Ill.—Elmhurst women's basketball battled for four quarters against conference-leading Illinois Wesleyan on Saturday afternoon but ultimately fell 81–59 inside R.A. Faganel Hall. Despite the final score, the Bluejays showed resilience, toughness in the paint, and strong individual performances while competing against one of the CCIW's top teams.
Elmhurst opened the game with energy, establishing an inside presence early and holding the Titans to just 11 points in the opening quarter. Natalie Robinson was active around the rim, scoring efficiently and setting the tone defensively, while Anna Kleszynski provided a physical presence in the paint on both ends. The Bluejays led for much of the first quarter and entered the second trailing by just a narrow margin.
Illinois Wesleyan gradually gained momentum in the middle quarters, using transition scoring and perimeter shooting to build separation. Elmhurst continued to answer with strong interior play, outscoring the Titans 38–26 in the paint for the game. Robinson finished with a team-high 14 points on 6-of-9 shooting, adding five rebounds and two blocks in a strong all-around effort. Kleszynski matched her with 14 points of her own, including a pair of three-pointers, while pulling down eight rebounds.
Kristin Bukata directed the offense throughout, recording nine assists while playing all 40 minutes. She added 10 points, four rebounds, and two blocks, consistently creating opportunities for her teammates against Illinois Wesleyan's defensive pressure. Natalie Harty chipped in 12 points, knocking down two threes and attacking the lane late as Elmhurst looked to cut into the deficit.
Maia Lewers contributed seven points and four assists while battling foul trouble, and Diellza Dalipi provided key minutes off the bench with five rebounds and strong interior defense. The Bluejays forced eight turnovers and matched Illinois Wesleyan on the glass for long stretches before the Titans pulled away in the fourth quarter with a late scoring run.
Elmhurst showed its fight until the final horn, continuing to attack offensively and compete defensively against a veteran Illinois Wesleyan squad. The performance highlighted the Bluejays' interior strength, leadership from the guard position, and the continued growth of a group that remains competitive within the CCIW.
Elmhurst will look to regroup and carry its effort forward as conference play continues.
