DEARBORN, Mich. -- The University of Michigan-Dearborn women's basketball team struggled to keep pace with Cornerstone University in a 79-53 loss on Wednesday evening. Despite strong individual performances, the Wolverines could not overcome the Golden Eagles' offensive firepower and stifling defense.

Cornerstone (MI) opened the game with a dominant first quarter, outscoring the Wolverines 28-14. UM-Dearborn fought back in the second, but a 16-point period for Cornerstone extended the lead to 44-29 at halftime. The Golden Eagles continued their strong play in the second half, with a 22-point third quarter and 13 more points in the fourth, securing the 79-53 victory.

The Wolverines were led by junior guard Jordan Banks, who contributed 12 points on 3-of-9 shooting, including 2-of-4 from beyond the arc. Sydney Dixon came off the bench to score 11 points, hitting 4-of-7 from the field and 3-of-7 from the free-throw line. Marissa Thomas and Bailey Stimac each had five points in the losing effort, with Thomas pulling down three rebounds and Stimac dishing out two assists.

UM-Dearborn struggled offensively, shooting 32.3% from the field, including a tough 15.8% from three-point range. They also struggled at the free-throw line, converting 10 of their 19 attempts (52.6%). The Wolverines did show some fight on the glass, grabbing 33 rebounds, but Cornerstone's balanced offensive attack and efficient shooting proved too much.

Cornerstone (MI) was led by Jaxi Long, who posted a game-high 20 points on 7-of-12 shooting, and Mackenzie Goodwin, who added 13 points and seven rebounds. As a team, the Golden Eagles shot 50% from the field, including 5-of-17 from three-point range, and took advantage of Michigan-Dearborn's turnovers, scoring 16 points off 12 Wolverine giveaways.

Despite the loss, Michigan-Dearborn will look to regroup and improve as they head into the next stretch of their schedule. The Wolverines will take on UNOH next, and they are looking to bounce back from this tough defeat.