Beavers Drop Contest to Lyon

CARLINVILLE, IL — The Blackburn women's basketball team faced a tough challenge against Lyon College, battling for four quarters but ultimately falling, 101–66.

Top performers for Blackburn included juniors India Harris and Eiz Allende Quiñones, along with freshman Elexus Frey. Harris led the Beavers with 18 points and four rebounds. Allende Quiñones recorded a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Frey posted a career-high 17 points.

Blackburn opened the game with strong defensive effort, as junior Kenadee Frey, freshman Vickie McGee, and Allende Quiñones pulled down early rebounds to limit second-chance opportunities. Senior Zoe Mitchell helped spark the Beavers by converting both free throws following a steal to put Blackburn on the board. Despite the defensive intensity, Lyon capitalized on turnovers and perimeter shooting to build momentum and closed the first quarter with an advantage.

The Beavers continued to fight in the second quarter, showing flashes of offensive rhythm. Allende Quiñones was active on both ends, attacking the basket, converting free throws, and creating steals. Elexus Frey provided a lift from beyond the arc, knocking down multiple three-pointers with assists from Kenadee Frey. Harris added energy in the paint with strong finishes and rebounds, while McGee chipped in with a late basket before halftime. Blackburn went into the break trailing 50–26.

Coming out of the locker room, Blackburn showed renewed determination. Harris opened the third quarter with a jumper, and senior Gaby Solis followed with a score to keep the Beavers engaged. Kenadee Frey continued to stretch the floor with a three-pointer, while Blackburn generated multiple offensive rebounds from senior Kailynn Kruep, freshman Cheresse Mitchell, and Allende Quiñones. Despite sustained effort and second-chance opportunities, Lyon's shooting kept the margin wide heading into the fourth quarter.

In the final period, Blackburn continued to play with resilience and effort. Harris converted inside and at the free-throw line, while Allende Quiñones attacked the rim and finished through contact. Freshman Abby Borders added a three-pointer, and Elexus Frey closed the game strong with multiple late three-pointers, highlighting Blackburn's competitiveness until the final buzzer.

The Blackburn women's basketball team returns home for more SLIAC action as it hosts MUW on Saturday afternoon.