FRANKLIN, Ind. – The Manchester University women's basketball team was defeated by Franklin College 74-63 on Wednesday as Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference play resumed.

The Grizzlies jumped out to an early lead from which the Spartans were not able to recover from.  Franklin College led 17-6 at the end of the first quarter.  The Spartans managed to battle back in the second quarter and trailed 27-21 at halftime.

A quick run by Franklin in the opening minutes of the third quarter put the Grizzlies ahead by double digits.

Manchester shot 33.9% (19-56) from the field.  The Spartans went 18-30 (60%) from the free throw line.  The Grizzlies shot 44.6% (25-56) on Wednesday night and placed four players in double figures. 

Franklin College outrebounded Manchester University 50-31 in Wednesday's contest.

Faith-Alexis Graham (Indianapolis, Ind. / North Central) led the Spartans with 18 points on 7-10 shooting. Graham also added four steals, three rebounds, and two assists.  Haley Farris (Sharpsville, Ind. / Tri-Central) also finished in double figures with 10 points.  Farris added six rebounds.

With the loss, Manchester University dropped to 2-10, 0-5 HCAC.  Franklin improved 4-8, 2-3 HCAC.  MU will now prepare for Saturday's matchup with Hanover College.  The Spartans will host the Panthers in Stauffer-Wolfe Arena at 3 p.m. on January 5 following the conclusion of the men's game.