KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Western Michigan put up a tough fight against the second-ranked team in the Mid-American Conference, the University of Toledo, on Wednesday night at University Arena. Despite the 75-44 loss, the Broncos put forth a valiant effort. 
 
Lauren Audino had a standout performance for Western Michigan, scoring 13 points, grabbing three rebounds, and recording two steals and one block. Taylor Williams also played well, contributing 10 points, five rebounds, and two assists. Maggie Stutelberg added seven points and one rebound, while Hannah Spitzley tallied four points, pulled down six rebounds, and dished out one assist.
 
Western Michigan struggled to find its rhythm on the offensive end, shooting just 7-for-53 from the field for a shooting percentage of 32.1 percent. The struggle continued beyond the arc, shooting just 4-for-28 for 14.3 percent from three-point range. The free throw line was a bright spot for the team, as they shot 6-10 for 60 percent.
 
Despite their best efforts, Western Michigan struggled to find their footing in the game and was outmatched by Toledo's shooting and defensive skills. Toledo shot an impressive 53.8 percent from the field, 33.3 percent from beyond the arc, and 75 percent from the free-throw line.
 
Although Western Michigan had a strong showing in the first quarter and even held the lead, they were not able to maintain their momentum. In the second quarter, WMU went on a 9-point run and held a 7-point lead, until Toledo took control just before the second half at 34-28 and led for the remainder of the game. 
 
Western Michigan put up a good fight, with 20 points in the paint, six second-chance points, and a provided spark from the bench with 23 points. The Broncos held the turnover advantage at only four WMU turnovers while forcing 19 Rocket turnovers. 

WMU continues Mid-American Conference play later this week as they face off against Bowling Green State University in another home game on Saturday, February 18th. Scheduled for a noon tip-off, Saturday's game features a doubleheader with men's basketball and Alumni Day. Gear up for game day as we celebrate former WMU students' chance to reconnect with their alma mater and join in the game day festivities.

Saturday's contests will be available for streaming via ESPN+. To purchase tickets to any Western Michigan women's basketball home game this season, visit wmubroncos.com/tickets or call 1-888-4-WMUTIX.