The Ballard women's basketball team fought hard but came up just short in a thrilling Raccoon River Conference game against the Carroll Tigers, falling 34-32 at home.  Despite a strong defensive effort and a standout performance by senior Raegan Loewe, the Bombers couldn't overcome a fourth-quarter push by Carroll.

The game started with Carroll taking an early lead, scoring 10 points in the first quarter to Ballard's 8.  The Bombers responded with a dominant second quarter, holding the Tigers scoreless while adding 11 points of their own to take a 19-10 lead into halftime.

Carroll roared back in the third quarter, outscoring Ballard 13-5 to regain the lead.  The final period was a nail-biter, with both teams trading baskets and defensive stops.  Ultimately, the Tigers managed to edge out the Bombers in the closing minutes.

Raegan Loewe led the Bombers with an impressive 22-point effort, shooting 41.2% from the field and 75% from the free-throw line.  Loewe also contributed four rebounds and three steals in a stellar all-around performance.

Freshman Kaylor Johnson showed promise, pulling down seven rebounds and adding four points, while fellow freshman Olivia Wacha also grabbed seven rebounds and chipped in four points.  Despite their efforts, the Bombers struggled with turnovers, committing 17 as a team.

The Bombers, now 2-8 overall and 1-6 in conference play, will aim to bounce back on Saturday, January 11, when they host the Ballard Classic.  Their matchup against West Des Moines Valley is scheduled for 1:00 PM.

Photo Credit: Davidson Photography