Dubuque, Iowa – The Thunder women's basketball team returned to action on Thursday afternoon with the opening day at the Loras College Holiday Tournament. Wheaton opened against UW-Stevens Point this afternoon as the Pointers defeated the Thunder 52-46. Wheaton is now 7-4 on the season and returns to competition on Friday in the tournament's consolation game at 2:00 p.m. against Calvin University.
 
Caroline Sikkink led the Thunder today with 15 points, six rebounds and two steals . Annika Richardson tallied 14 points, with seven rebounds and two blocks. Caylee Hermanson added nine points with four rebounds and two blocked shots. Kate Oliver scored five points with four rebounds.
 
Wheaton shot 28.8% (15-of-52) from the field, including 15.8% (3-of-19) from three-point range. The Pointers recorded a 31.6% (18-of-57) field goal percentage, including 22.2% (2-of-9) behind the three-point arc. The Thunder shot 72.2% (13-of-18) at the free throw line and the Pointers shot 60.9% (14-for-23) at the charity stripe. The Pointers out-rebounded Wheaton 45-27, including a 17-5 edge on the offensive glass.
 
Josie Nies led UW-Stevens Point in scoring with 15 points and eight rebounds. Gabby Gawlitta had 13 rebounds and Alexa Thompson added 10 boards for the Pointers.