TIFFIN – Though the Heidelberg University women's basketball team cut a 17-point deficit to nine, they were unable to complete the comeback against the Muskingum University. The tussle with the Fighting Muskies ended in an 80-71 loss for the 'Berg.  

Marissa Thomas led the team with 16 points, her second-best output of the season. Junior Bailey Walter and freshman Morgan Altenburger both finished with 12, a season high for the newcomer.

On the boards, Ashley Ballard snared nine, followed by Alyssa Martin with six. Each slapped away two blocks on the night. 

Two minutes in, Hallie Rogers hit a 3-pointer to start their drive. Heidelberg struggled to find comfort from long range, only shooting 3-for-16 on the afternoon. This showed to be the difference in the first quarter as Muskingum sank three and led 20-14.

The second quarter was a much more aggressive field as both teams shot for a combined 17 free throws. Heidelberg made 8-10, aiding in the absence of conversions. Martin added four points from the paint, topping off her eight total in the matchup. A hopeful HU squad slipped into the locker room down 13. 

The Student Princes logged their second-highest third-quarter of the season, with 26 points.  Walter scored eight in a row for the 'Berg, but the Muskies showed no weakness, only being outscored by three. 

Undaunted, Heidelberg came to life with a late 7-0 run to stop the bleeding. Lily Sweeney drew an and-1, later followed by a layup. Altenburger went to the stripe for the last time with 38 seconds on the clock, closing their fate at 80-71. 

Heidelberg dropped to 3-17 (2-11 OAC). While Muskingum advanced to 9-10 overall (4-8 OAC).

Taylor DeMassimo was one of three Muskies in double digits, with 24 points. She also topped rebounding with Halle Morehead at six. 

The Tricolor is back in action with a quick turnaround Wednesday, as they face Capital University in Seiberling Gymnasium. Tip-off is slated for 7 p.m.