ELMHURST, Ill. — Elmhurst women's basketball went toe-to-toe with North Central (Ill.) on Saturday afternoon but came up just short in a tightly contested 71–61 decision. The game featured five ties and four lead changes as the Bluejays remained within striking distance throughout before North Central pulled away at the free-throw line in the closing minutes.

Elmhurst was paced by Sierra Gibson, who delivered a strong performance off the bench with a team-high 13 points on 5-of-9 shooting while adding four rebounds, two steals, and a block. Natalie Harty followed with 12 points, knocking down four three-pointers to provide a consistent perimeter threat across 36 minutes.

Kristin Bukata orchestrated the offense with 10 assists while adding nine points and seven rebounds, as the Bluejays worked through multiple momentum swings. Jacy Fierst gave Elmhurst a lift with eight points off the bench, while Natalie Robinson contributed seven points, three rebounds, and two blocks in limited minutes.

Inside, Anna Kleszynski controlled the glass with a game-high 12 rebounds combined with six points and two steals, helping Elmhurst generate second-chance opportunities and keep the contest close. Diellza Dalipi added six points and four rebounds, with a half time buzzer beater shooting from the three to carry the energy into the final periods.

Elmhurst connected on nine three-pointers and outpaced North Central in fast-break points, 9–0, while also holding a narrow edge in bench scoring. The Bluejays remained within one possession late in the fourth quarter before North Central sealed the game at the line, scoring 13 free throws in the final period.

Despite the final margin, Elmhurst's balance, defensive effort, and bench production highlighted the Bluejays' competitiveness as they continue to navigate conference play and build toward the heart of the season.

You can find the team on the court again come Wednesay January 28th at 7pm at R. A. Faganel Hall, against Wheaton.