A strong fourth quarter push from the Briar Cliff women's basketball team was not enough to upset #8 Clarke Saturday in Dubuque, Iowa. Konnor Sudmann led the Chargers in the season opener with 16 points.
 
In an evenly matched first half, the Chargers held a 25-24 lead over the Pride. It was both team's first half of live action this season, and after 20 minute of play they both shot under 35.0% from the field.
 
Clarke found their stride in the third quarter, outscoring the Cliff 22-11 with a 50.0% shooting percentage. However, the Chargers offense began to flow as they shot 41.7%. BC dominated the fourth quarter, converting 6-of-9 attempts while holding the Pride to 3-of-12.
 
Kennedy Benne and Sudmann paced the Cliff in the final quarter with six and five points, respectively. Despite shooting 66.7% from the field, eight turnovers in the final 10 minutes were too much to overcome as the Cliff fell 52-53.
 
Sudmann went 6-for-9 and knocked down both her attempts from the 3-point line on the way to her game high 16 points. Madelyn Deitchler had 11 points and five rebounds.

Kennedy Benne totaled six points, five rebounds, five steals and three assists. Payton Slaughter had eight points, five boards and three helpers.
 
The Chargers face Dakota State and Bellevue next Friday and Saturday at the Concordia Cattle Classic. Tip-off against the Trojans is set for 1 p.m. in Seward, Nebraska.