LOUISVILLE Ky. --The Bellarmine University Knights fell to Northern Kentucky University this evening 65-52 at Knights Hall in a Great Lakes Valley Conference women's basketball contest.

The Norse claimed an 11 point lead five minutes into the game at 15-4.  The Knights were able to cut the lead to three thanks in large part to Melissa Fitz's 10 first half points. Northern Kentucky rallied for a 37-25 halftime lead.

The Norse opened the second half with a 7-0 run to extend their lead to 39-25 at the 15:22 mark. The Knights closed the gap to six with a free throw from Kylie Brady at the 6:52 mark, but the Norse finished strong to claim the 13-point victory.

Bellarmine hit 33.3 percent from the field during the game with three players in double figures. Melissa Fitz led the pack with 14 while Kylie Brady and Brittany Edelen each added 11.

The Knights were outrebounded 39-30 with Jalissa Chatlos yanking down nine and Kylie Brady grabbing seven.

After a frustrating game, Bellarmine Coach David Smith said “We did a decent job but, we just have to be more patient. We have to learn to make better shot selections and not rush up bad shots.”

The Norse, who won their ninth in a row, also had three players in double-figures with Brandi Rayburn producing 14, Rachel Lantry and Cassi Mogan each totaling 12.

Bellarmine falls to 14-10, 7-8 (GLVC) while NKU improves to 18-6, 12-3.

The Knights travel to University of Indianapolis to face the No. 2 Greyhounds on Monday Feb. 15 in a Great Lakes Valley Conference matchup. UIndy slipped by Bellarmine 71-68 in Knights Hall earlier this year and still remain undefeated on the season. Tip is set for 5:30 p.m. in Nicoson Hall.

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