SOUTH BEND, Ind – The Indiana University Kokomo Women's basketball team opened the season on the road Saturday, losing to IU South Bend 80-48.

The Titans of IU South Bend jumped out to a quick 5-0 lead before Gabrielle Joyner drilled a three-pointer to make it 5-3, giving the Cougars their first points of the season. IU Kokomo would only score once more in the quarter on a Sierra Peete layup.
Trailing 21-5 midway through the second quarter, the Cougars went on a 7-0 run to cut the Titan lead to nine. The run, beginning with back-to-back Peete field goals, was capped off by a Kristen Ridner three-pointer. IU South Bend would finish the half strong and enter halftime with a 42-22 lead over the Cougars.

The Cougars showed fight late in the third quarter. While trailing 65-33, the Cougars went on an 11-0 spurt in the final 2:05 of the quarter. Despite a strong finish to the third quarter, the Cougars were unable to carry the momentum to the fourth, as they were held to four points in the final quarter.

IU Kokomo was led by senior guard Sierra Peete, delivering 12 points on 50% shooting from the field. Peete also added five assists and three rebounds. Vanessa Mullins and Gabrielle Joyner each had eight points as well. Joyner paced the Cougars with seven rebounds.

The Cougars will return to the court Wednesday, November 3, as they host Grace College inside the Student Activities and Events Center for the home opener. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.

For the latest news, updates, and information on the IU Kokomo Cougars, fans can visit IUKCougars.com. Fans can also stay up to date on the latest Cougar news by following @IUKAthletics on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.