Kenosha, Wis. – The Thunder women's basketball opened conference play on Tuesday night with a CCIW matchup at Carthage. The Firebirds (5-2, 1-0 CCIW) controlled the game and earned a 77-37 win against the Thunder. Carthage handed Wheaton its first loss as the Thunder drop to 5-1 overall and 0-1 in CCIW play.

Annie Tate led the Thunder with 10 points, adding two steals. Caroline Sikkink tallied eight points with two assists. Alyssa Faberowski scored six points off the Thunder bench, adding two steals. Lily Caddow and Kate Oliver each scored five points.

Lauren Knight led Carthage with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Marianna Morrissey tallied 16 points with four assists, eight rebounds, and four assists. Addison Ebeling scored 15 points for the hosts and Emma Thistle distributed 10 assists.

Carthage shot 50.8% (31-61) from the field tonight, including 38.9% (7-of-18) behind the three-point arc. The Thunder posted a 22.2% (12-of-54) field goal percentage, including 23.8% (5-21) from three-point range. The Firebirds shot 61.5% (8-13) at the free throw line and Wheaton posted a 57.1% (8-of-14) at the line. Carthage out-rebounded Wheaton 55-20, including 14-4 on the offensive glass. The hosts dominated inside with a 44-14 advantage in points in the paint.

Wheaton hosts North Central on Saturday night in King Arena in the CCIW home opener for the Thunder. The contest between the Cardinals and the Thunder will tip off at 5:00 p.m.