NAPERVILLE, Ill. – The University of Chicago women's basketball team maintained their perfect season with a thrilling 66-62 road victory over North Central College on Wednesday afternoon. UChicago (8-0) showcased resilience, overcoming a first-quarter deficit to secure the win. 

The Maroons faced an early challenge, trailing 21-13 after the first quarter as North Central's Biz Daly led a strong start for the Cardinals with 24 points. However, UChicago flipped the momentum in the second quarter, outscoring the hosts 22-9 to take a five-point halftime lead. 

Kasi Samuda led the Maroons with 15 points and dominated the glass, pulling down eight rebounds, while Bri Simpson provided a spark off the bench with 12 points. Kate Gross chipped in 11 points and nearly notched a double-double with nine rebounds. The Maroons capitalized on their depth, recording 25 bench points to North Central's three. 

Defense proved critical in the second half, with UChicago holding off a late Cardinals rally. Caroline Workman and the Maroons forced 14 turnovers, converting them into 16 points. UChicago's interior dominance was key, outscoring North Central 38-36 in the paint and grabbing 41 rebounds to the Cardinals' 36. 

UChicago held strong in the closing moments, with Samuda's late free throws sealing the victory. The Maroons' balanced attack and defensive tenacity proved decisive as they continued their undefeated streak. 

The Maroons are back in action on Tuesday, December 17 against in state and regional rival Illinois Wesleyan University as they take on the Titans away in Bloomington, IL at 7:00 PM CST.