PRINCE GEORGE, BC — Every time the Timberwolves got close, the Manitoba Bisons hit a big shot, holding off UNBC 76-69, on Friday, January 11 at the Charles Jago Northern Sports Centre.

The win snaps a seven-game losing streak for Manitoba, who started the season 5-0. They now sit at 6-7 overall. UNBC falls to 8-5 with the loss.

A defensive first half, filled with several lead changes, led to a 36-28 halftime lead for the Bisons. A late surge from Nicole Konieczny helped put the Bisons ahead at the break. Maria Mongomo and Madison Landry combined for 20 of the Timberwolves 28 first half points.

The Timberwolves began to mount their comeback in the third quarter, led by their veteran Mongomo, who put up a quarter-high ten points. Vasiliki Louka capped off the quarter with an and-one, putting the Timberwolves within one point of the Bisons as the quarter finished 52-51.

An action packed fourth quarter saw the Timberwolves and Bisons trade leads on several occasions. Madison Landry and the Timberwolves put on the pressure, but for all of the Timberwolves efforts, the Bisons stayed strong. Point guard Taylor Randall was crucial in preserving the Manitoba lead, hitting a number of jumpers late in the quarter.

The score at the end of the night read 76-69 in favour of the visiting Bisons.

"Getting wins on the road in this league is very important, and we'll look to continue this tomorrow night," said Taylor Randall, who finished with 20 points and seven assists.

In a disappointing night for the Timberwolves, Mongomo led all scorers with 23 points and nine rebounds. Louka also added 16 points, 16 rebounds, and 5 assists.

"We came out flat, with low energy and didn't play to our strengths. Although we lost, I think we can build on it and come out tomorrow with a different mindset," said the Timberwolves' Madison Landry.

"We stayed true to our game plan on the night, and shots seemed to fall for us throughout," said Randall.

The loss snaps the Timberwolves unbeaten home record on the season, and they will look to bounce back Saturday as the two teams face off again at the Charles Jago Northern Sports Centre.