NEW ULM, Minn. - The Martin Luther College women's basketball team could not overcome the stingy University of Minnesota Morris (UMM) defense in a 67-52 defeat on Friday night.

The Knights jumped out to a strong start, leading the Cougars 18-15 after the first quarter thanks to four three-point field goals, but UMM responded by outscoring them 17-6 in the second period to take a 32-24 halftime lead.

The Cougars pushed their lead to 56-40 after three quarters and didn't allow the Knights to cut the deficit lower than 12 the rest of the way en route to the win.

Turnovers proved costly for the Knights as the Cougars turned 20 MLC miscues into 22 points on the other end. UMM also controlled the game at the free throw line, outscoring MLC 15-6 for the game.

Emma Nelson led MLC with 14 points, while Jordyn Heckendorf added 10 points and three assists. Anna Treder led all players with 15 rebounds for MLC.

The Knights fell to 8-14 overall and 4-7 in UMAC play in defeat. UMM improved to 9-12 on the season and 6-5 in league play with the win.

MLC will return to action tomorrow (Saturday, February 12) when it hosts Crown College in the home finale. Tip off is scheduled for 3:00 p.m.