The Millikin women's basketball team used a second half surge to defeat Elmhurst University 81-55 on February 18 in Elmhurst, Illinois.

         Millikin trailed 19-15 after the first quarter, but rallied in the second quarter to take a 32-27 lead at halftime. The Big Blue outscored Elmhurst 22-12 in the third quarter and 27-16 in the fourth quarter.

         After making only 33 percent (6-18) of its shots in the first quarter, Millikin found its offensive rhythm going 6-12 in the second quarter and making 41 percent (9-22) in the third quarter. The Big Blue closed out the game strong hitting on 10-15 (67 percent) from the field in the fourth quarter including making 3-6 from three-point range. Millikin's largest lead of the game was 26 with 1:08 remaining in the game.

         Millikin shot 46 percent (31-67) from the field for the game including going 9-19 (47 percent) from beyond the three-point line. The Big Blue held Elmhurst to 34 percent (20-59) from the field. Elmhurst hit on 7-19 (37 percent) from three-point range. Millikin forced 24 Elmhurst turnovers while committing 16. Millikin won the rebounding battle 38-37.

         Millikin had 13 players score in the game led by Jordan Hildebrand with 16 points and five rebounds. Natalie Snyder added 11 points. Elyce Knudsen had nine points and three assists. Bailey Coffman and Abby Ratsch each scored eight points.

         Elena Cabrera led Elmhurst with nine points followed by Courtney O'Donnell with eight points and nine rebounds.

         Millikin improves to 6-3 while Elmhurst goes to 2-7.

         The two teams play on Saturday, February 20 at the Griswold Center.