GREAT FALLS, MT - The Eagles opened their season with a 69-81 loss on the road to Montana State University - Northern at the Holiday Inn Classic. 
 
A slow start plagued Northwest when the Skylights took a 28-13 lead by the end of the first quarter. The Eagles were able to make up some ground by outscoring MSU-Northern 56-53 in the remaining quarters. Ultimately, the Eagles ran out of time.
 
"Except for a challenging first quarter, we played well enough to win," said NU Head Coach Ken Crawford. "We dug too much of a hole in that first quarter. It is a good learning experience and we're looking forward to getting the opportunity to go out tomorrow night and get even better!"
 
Maya DuChesne led the Eagles with 18 points, while Linnea Schafer went 6-6 to bring in 12 points off the bench. Alli VanKooten locked in 10 rebounds for the night. 
 
Northwest takes on the University of Providence Friday at 4 p.m. PST before heading home.