Embry-Riddle battled early but couldn't overcome a dominant third quarter from Life University, falling 70-44 Wednesday evening at the Eagles' Nest in Georgia.

The Eagles (0-4) opened the game with energy, taking an early 2-0 lead on a Bella Barrett jumper and staying within striking distance through the first half. After trailing 15-10 after the first quarter, Embry-Riddle cut the gap to five midway through the second period and entered halftime down just 32-22.

Life (2-0) broke the game open in the third quarter, outscoring the Eagles 29-13 behind hot shooting and aggressive defense. The visitors shot 56.3% in the frame and converted all eight free throws, building a lead that reached 26 points late in the period.

Embry-Riddle showed resilience in the fourth, highlighted by a pair of three-pointers from Angelina Whelan and Morgan Evenson, but the early deficit proved too much to overcome.

Top Performers for Embry-Riddle:

• Abby Dean led the Eagles with 10 points, adding two assists and a steal.
• Angelina Whelan provided a spark off the bench with 9 points and 8 rebounds.
• Katie McBride chipped in 7 points and three boards.
• Bella Barrett anchored the paint with 6 points, 7 rebounds, and two blocks.

As a team, the Eagles grabbed 41 rebounds and scored 22 points in the paint but struggled from the field, shooting 26.7% overall and 22.2% from three-point range.

Life University was paced by Aniyah Offutt's 13 points and four steals, while Madison Carey added 12 points and six rebounds.

Embry-Riddle will look to bounce back on Friday as the Eagles play Truett McConnell with tip-off scheduled for 3:30pm AZ time.