Despite a dream start against one of the OCAA West's top teams, the Niagara Knights women's basketball team dropped a 57-52 decision to the visiting Sheridan Bruins.

With the return of Hannah Baker (Thorold) to the lineup, Niagara caught the Bruins off-guard and jumped out to a 12-point halftime lead. Sheridan closed the game in the 3rd, getting the game within eight to start the fourth. 

The top-ranked Bruins flexed their offensive muscles in the fourth, outscoring the Knights 23-11 in the final frame to claim the four point victory. 

The Knights close out the first half with a 5-6 record, finding themselves in the middle of the OCAA West pack in sixth place.

Alannah Yates (Hamilton) continued her hot play, recording his fourth double digit performance in the last give contests with 14 points. Bridget Atkinson (St. Catharines) and Hannah Baker also hit double digits, recording 13 and 10 points, respectively. Atkinson was also able to complete the double-double with game-high 12 rebounds to her credit.

The Knights will now enjoy an extend holiday break, resuming their regular season schedule on Friday, January 11th when they head to Ancaster to visit the Redeemer Royals. Over the break, Niagara will host their annual Knights Invitational welcoming teams from across the OCAA to the Welland Campus on Athletic Centre for a pair of action packed basketball days on January 2nd and 3rd.