ELLENSBURG, Wash.---The Biola women's basketball team had an optimistic start, but would end up being overcome 59-48 by Central Washington at the Nicholson Arena.

The Eagles out-scored the Wildcats 16-10 in the first quarter. Jaycee Goldsmith led Biola's scoring effort with six points. Jessa Thurman and Sammie Henley had four points each and Laila Walker scored a two-point basket. 

Central Washington charged back in the second quarter where they out-scored Biola 15-9. The Wildcats worked their way back from behind to tie up the game (23-23) and then took a two-point lead with 2:20 left on the game clock. Walker stepped up for the Eagles, making two free throws to tie up the game 25-25 heading into the halftime break. 

Despite a great effort by Biola, Central Washington would close out the game strong, ultimately out-scoring BU 34-23 in the second half. 

The Eagles were chasing the Wildcats by seven heading into the fourth quarter and got as close as two points before CWU pulled away with a 10-point run. 

Henley led the Eagles' offensive effort with 14 points and she was followed by Thurman (12) and Goldsmith (9). Thurman led Biola on the boards, collecting six against CWU.

Next up for the Eagles is PacWest Conference play. Biola opens up conference against CUI on Wednesday, December 4th at 5:30 pm at Chase Gymnasium.