Feb. 7, 2008

Box Score

VALPARAISO, Ind. - Valparaiso (10-11, 5-5 Horizon) used a late 9-0 run to seize the lead and take control of the game en route to a 69-62 victory tonight over visiting Loyola University Chicago (4-17, 2-8 Horizon). Loyola sophomore Keisha Collins tossed in a career-best 23 points, hitting 7 of 11 shots from the field, in the losing effort.

The Ramblers, who led by as many as four points in the first half, used a 9-4 run in the second period to take a 54-53 lead with 5:42 left in regulation. After Valpo's 9-0 run that gave the hosts a 62-54 lead, Loyola stormed back, thanks to six points from Collins and two from Elyse VanBogaert, to cut the deficit to two points.

However, Leah Hochstetler's three-pointer with 14 seconds left gave the Crusaders a five-point cushion (67-62) and following a missed three-pointer by VanBogaert, Aimee Litka drained a pair of free throws to provide the final margin of victory.

Loyola, which out-rebounded Valparaiso, 41-31, was led by Collins' career night, which also included two assists, two rebounds and a steal. Maggie McCloskey poured in 11 points and added four boards.

Valpo was led by 16 points from Agnieszka Kulaga.

The Ramblers look to get back on the winning track Saturday when they travel to Butler.