The Millikin women's basketball team opened College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin play with a 71-60 loss to #15 Wheaton College on Jan. 4 at the Griswold Center in Decatur, Ill.

          Wheaton controlled the first half building a 33-20 lead at the half.  Millikin regrouped and played well in the second half outscoring the Thunder 40-38.

          Wheaton shot 41 percent from the field while Millikin shot 39 percent.  The Thunder controlled the rebounding battle 51-28.

          Brittany Czaplicki led Millikin with 20 points while Bria Williams had a double double with 13 points and 14 rebounds. 

          Ellie Zeller had 22 points to lead the Thunder.  Katie McDaniels added 17.  Maris Hovee had a game high 15 rebounds.

          Wheaton is now 10-1, 1-0 while Millikin goes to 6-6, 0-1.

          Millikin will host North Central College on Jan. 8 at 7 p.m.