BONDURANT – The Ballard women's basketball team opened conference play Friday night at Bondurant, but the Bombers came up short in a 57-49 loss.

The first half was a battle, but Bondurant jumped out to an early lead, scoring 20 points in the opening quarter while Ballard managed 10.  The teams traded baskets in the second and third quarters, with Ballard narrowing the gap at times, but the host team held a slight edge throughout.  A strong fourth quarter by Ballard, outscoring Bondurant 18-10, showed the team's fight, but it wasn't enough to complete the comeback.

Sophomore Kaylor Johnson led Ballard with 16 points, adding seven rebounds and two blocks.  Maci Harder contributed 12 points on 50% shooting and added an assist and a steal.  Junior Raya Miller was perfect from the field and beyond the arc, scoring six points while grabbing four rebounds and dishing out three assists.  Freshman Brooklyn Shoen helped at the free-throw line, going 3-of-4, finishing with three points, and pulling down two boards.

The Bombers shot 38.6% from the field and 31.6% from three, while converting 52.9% of their free throws.  Ballard also forced 13 turnovers and collected 22 rebounds in the game.

Ballard falls to 0-4 overall and 0-1 in conference play.  The team looks to bounce back Tuesday, December 9, when they travel to Boone for a 6:00 PM tipoff.

Photo Credit: Davidson Photography