Preview: Loyola Chicago Ramblers at Northwestern Wildcats

EVANSTON, Ill. (Interstat) — The Northwestern Wildcats look to snap a four-game skid when they host the Loyola Chicago Ramblers in a nonconference women’s basketball game Thursday at Welsh-Ryan Arena.

The Wildcats (6-4) enter on a difficult stretch, with all four recent losses coming against power conference opponents, including a 91-66 defeat at then-Utah on Dec. 14. Northwestern’s offense has consistently run through junior guard Grace Sullivan, who is averaging 26.2 points over her last five games. She erupted for 37 points and eight rebounds in a narrow loss to Ohio State on Dec. 7.

“We’ve been tested by a very tough schedule,” Northwestern coach Joe McKeown said. “The focus now is on cleaning up our defensive execution and maintaining our offensive rhythm. Grace has been a consistent force for us, and we need others to step up around her.”

The Ramblers (3-7) are seeking momentum after a 59-56 home victory over Oakland on Monday ended a three-game losing streak. Loyola has struggled offensively, failing to reach 60 points in six of its 10 games. The team will rely on guard Alex-Anne Bessette, who scored 18 points in the win over Oakland and is averaging 15.4 points per game over her last five contests.

“Getting that win was crucial for our confidence,” Loyola Chicago coach Allison Guth said. “We showed resilience. To compete at Northwestern, we’ll need to value every possession and limit their transition opportunities.”

Northwestern holds a distinct rebounding advantage, averaging 38.5 boards per game compared to Loyola’s 31.8. The Wildcats’ Sullivan will be a primary concern for a Ramblers defense that allows an average of 64.2 points per game.

This marks the final nonconference tune-up for Northwestern before a daunting Big Ten schedule begins next month. Loyola Chicago continues a five-game road swing before returning home next week.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST.