By Ben Risinger, sports information director
February 2, 2005

FRANKLIN, Ind. - The Bluffton University women's basketball team (4-16, 1-8 HCAC) was defeated on the road by Franklin College (15-5, 6-3 HCAC) 69-41 on Feb. 2.

The Grizzlies jumped out to the early lead in the first half only to find Bluffton come back within two points (13-11) with eight minutes left in the period. After the Beavers cut Franklin's lead down, the Grizzlies went on an 8-0 run to open up the game. At halftime Franklin would lead the contest by 13 points, 30-17. 

Bluffton shot better in the second half (32 percent) but could not hold off the Grizzly attack. Franklin would lead the game by around 20 points for much the entire period. With seven minutes left Franklin went on a 10-0 run to extend their lead even more and take the win, 69-41.

Freshman Ashleigh Stallkamp (Paulding/Paulding) led Bluffton with 10 points on the night. Sophomore Tanya Rickenberg(Paulding/Paulding) posted nine points and a team high eight rebounds. Junior Karin Schaller (Jenera/Arlington) pulled down eight boards and two blocks.

Franklin College shot 40 percent (27-of-67) for the contest compared to Bluffton's 30 percent (15-of-50). The Beavers led on the boards with 42 rebounds to Franklin's 38.

Bluffton University will be back in action on Saturday, Feb. 5 in Founders Hall. The Beavers will host HCAC opponent Transylvania University for a 3 p.m. tip off.