“Long-Distance Triumph: Ramblers Shine with Record 3-Point Performance Against Saint Louis”

SAINT LOUIS – The Loyola University Chicago women’s basketball squad halted a three-game losing streak with an exhilarating 66-63 away victory against Saint Louis on Saturday evening at Chaifetz Arena. Loyola achieved a season-high 52-percent shooting rate from beyond the arc, while three Ramblers reached double digits in scoring to clinch the triumph.

“We just exited a locker room that was absolutely ecstatic about this win,” remarked Loyola Chicago Head Coach Allison Guth. “This game was crucial for us: not only did we want to get back into the win column and showcase beautiful Rambler basketball, but we also have a heated rivalry with this team,”

How it Unfolded

The Ramblers (11-8, 3-5 Atlantic 10) burst out of the gate with a 10-0 surge – all points credited to Emma Theodorsson. The junior lit up the court with two 3-pointers, a second-chance jumper, and a layup to spark the Ramblers’ offense. SLU countered the run, but a critical three from Jess Finney at the 1:06 mark, coupled with two successful free throws from Audrey Deptula, concluded the first quarter favorably for Loyola, 15-13.

Naelle Bernard ignited a 9-0 run, allowing Loyola to maintain a seven-point edge midway through the second quarter. Saint Louis (7-12, 1-5 Atlantic 10) fought back with a 9-3 run to end the half, but another three from Bernard during SLU’s stretch enabled LUC to lead the hosts, 32-32, at halftime.

The Maroon and Gold again started strong in the third quarter, executing a 14-5 run to lead Saint Louis, 46-38, with 3:21 remaining in the frame. Thoranna Kika Hodge-Carr – who initiated the run with a layup – and Theodorsson combined for nine of the 14 points. LUC’s eight-point cushion marked Loyola’s largest lead since beginning the game with a 10-0 advantage.

Saint Louis once more weathered the storm as the two squads were tied 47-47 after Hodge-Carr’s free throw to kick off the fourth quarter. The contest saw seven lead changes and three ties in a nail-biting finish, but Loyola’s poise at the free-throw line ultimately secured the win. With 1:15 remaining in regulation, Bernard sunk a pivotal go-ahead 3-pointer, propelling the Ramblers to a 63-62 advantage. Loyola then sealed the game by netting three free throws, clinching a 66-63 victory.

Highlights

• Loyola concluded the evening shooting 47-percent from the field (22-of-47), representing their best outing since a 49-percent performance against South Carolina State on Nov. 30.
• LUC’s 52-percent (11-of-21) accuracy from three-point range was its best of the season.
• Theodorsson recorded a season-high 22 points on 8-of-15 shooting. She was 4-of-7 from beyond the arc, marking a season-best for made threes.
• Bernard totaled 17 points on 5-of-9 shooting. She went 4-of-6 from three-point range.
• Hodge-Carr achieved her first double-double of her career with 13 points and a career-best 11 rebounds. She concluded her performance with five assists.
• Kira Chivers also recorded five assists.
• Roisin Grandberry made her debut appearance donning the Maroon and Gold.

Next Up
The Ramblers are set to return to the court this upcoming Thursday (Jan. 23) for a 6 p.m. matchup against the defending Atlantic 10 champions, Richmond. The game will be streamed live on ESPN+.