RIO GRANDE, Ohio. - The IU Kokomo women's basketball team fell at #12 Rio Grande Tuesday evening 76-49. The Cougars stifled the Red Storm for much of the first half but came up short in the squad's first game of 2023.

Anna Kiser got the scoring started Tuesday as she knocked down her first three-pointer of the season to give IU Kokomo a 3-1 lead two minutes into the game. Kiser later knocked down a jumper to extend the IUK lead to four at 11-7. Rio Grande responded and took a 12-11 lead, but the Cougars scored the final four points of the quarter for a 15-12 lead.

Rio Grande went on a 6-0 run to open the second quarter but after a John Kenger timeout, Emma Good drained a triple to knot the score at 18. The trey fueled a 7-0 run from IUK that gave them a 22-18 lead. The Red Storm led 28-27 with 2:52 remaining before ending the half on a 13-0 run for a 40-27 halftime lead.

After extending their lead to double-digits before halftime, Rio continued their strong play in the second half. The Cougars got within 11 with 2:14 to go in the third quarter, but the Red Storm led 58-39 after three quarters.

Rio Grande quickly added on to their lead in the fourth quarter, beating IU Kokomo 76-49.

Freshman guard Ella Wolfe had a strong game for IUK, scoring 11 points while running the offense. Alaya Chapman had nine points while Anna Kiser added seven.

The Cougars will return to the hardwood Saturday, January 7th, as they will host RSC foe Ohio Christian. Tip-off is set for 1:00 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.