Slow Start, Cold Shooting Doom Wolverines in Home Defeat to Cleary
Michigan-Dearborn kept the contest close early but struggled to generate offense throughout the night, falling 64–44 in WHAC play at the Fieldhouse.
DEARBORN, Mich. – Michigan-Dearborn women's basketball struggled to find offensive rhythm on Wednesday night, falling 64–44 to Cleary University in a WHAC matchup at the UM-Dearborn Fieldhouse.
The Wolverines fell behind early as Cleary opened the game with a 15–8 first-quarter lead, capitalizing on second-chance opportunities and efficient shooting around the rim. UM-Dearborn responded in the second quarter behind interior production from Tamia Tounsel, who helped trim the deficit to 32–24 at halftime. However, Cleary regained control out of the break, outscoring the Wolverines 14–10 in the third and pulling away in the final period.
Tounsel delivered a strong performance in the post, recording a double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds while shooting 5-for-12 from the floor. Bailey Stimac added 14 points and went 6-of-7 at the free-throw line, while Marissa Thomas chipped in six points and a pair of steals. Despite UM-Dearborn's effort on the glass (42 rebounds), the Wolverines were hampered by shooting struggles, finishing 26.9% from the field and 1-for-12 from three.
Cleary's balanced offense proved decisive, with four players scoring in double figures. Samantha Hoelscher led the Cougars with 15 points and 10 rebounds, while Izzy Dugal added 13 points. Cleary also forced 18 Wolverine turnovers and converted them into transition opportunities throughout the night.
