The 19^th-ranked Briar Cliff women's basketball team battled tough on the road Wednesday night but came up short in a 70–61 loss to the No. 9 Dakota Wesleyan Tigers. 

The Chargers got off to a strong start, taking a 16–14 lead after the opening quarter. DWU responded in the second period, edging BCU 16–13 to carry a narrow 30–29 advantage into halftime. The Tigers gained separation in the third, outscoring the Chargers 19–13, before holding off Briar Cliff's push in the fourth to secure the win.

Mallie McNair led the Cliff with a game-high 19 points, knocking down five three-pointers and adding four assists. Abby Lee finished with 10 points, while Brooklyn Heineman posted a double-double with 10 points and a team-high 13 rebounds. Taylor Sodeman contributed eight points and six boards, and Kenna Mongan added seven points for the Chargers.

As a team, Briar Cliff connected on 46.2% from beyond the arc, hitting 12 three-pointers on the night. The Chargers also forced 14 turnovers and stayed within striking distance throughout, but the Tigers capitalized at the free-throw line to maintain control late.

Briar Cliff moves to 16–6 overall and 10–6 in GPAC play. The Chargers return to action Saturday, January 31, hosting the College of Saint Mary's inside the Newman Flanagan Center. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.