A fast start by eighth-ranked Clarke University was enough to hand the Culver-Stockton women's basketball team its third straight loss Wednesday night in Dubuque, Iowa.

The Wildcats trailed 26-16 after one quarter as the host Pride connected on 71 percent of their field goals in the opening period. Clarke outscored C-SC 50-48 over the final three quarters, making the first quarter start the decisive quarter in the game in a 76-64 final.

Overall, the Pride shot 53 percent from the field, including ending the game by drilling 57 percent of their field goals in the final period. After shooting 50 percent in the first quarter, the Wildcats finished the game by shooting 40 percent overall, although they were at 46 percent in the fourth quarter.

C-SC also kept themselves in the game by forcing 19 Pride turnovers while committing only 11 miscues. The Wildcats took advantage with a 21-7 edge on points off turnovers.

Freshman Avery Oetting led three C-SC players in double figures with 15 points. Aaliyah Ortiz and Kiana Ortiz each added 13 markers with Aaliyah registering three assists and two steals. 

McKenzie Lathrom, who was held to seven points, led the Wildcats with four rebounds and four assists. The Wildcats were out-rebounded 38-24 in the game, though the Pride just held a 15-13 edge in second chance points.

C-SC, now 11-5 overall and 6-4 in the Heart of America Athletic Conference, will try to snap the winless streak this Saturday, Jan. 14, when they host Mount Mercy University in a conference game at Charles Field House. Game time is set for 2 p.m.