The University of Regina's women's basketball team suffered a 61-60 loss to tournament host Ryerson as both teams opened up the Darcel Wright Memorial Classic on Friday afternoon in Toronto.
 
The Cougars led for most of the way, but were held without a field goal in the final six minutes which allowed Ryerson to erase what had been a double-digit lead early in the fourth quarter. The Rams went on a 12-2 run after Kyanna Giles' layup put the Cougars up by eight with just over six minutes to play, taking the lead for good when Cara Tiemens hit a triple with under two minutes to go.
 
The Cougars had two chances in the final 30 seconds to take the lead, but turned over the ball on both possessions as Ryerson was able to hang on for the win.
 
Carolina Goncalves led all players with 18 points for the Cougars, while Giles finished with 17 points and eight rebounds. Macaela Crone led Regina in both rebounds (9) and steals (4).
 
Sofia Paska had a team-high 15 points for Ryerson, which will move on to face Bishop's in the tournament semifinals on Saturday night.
 
The Cougars, now 3-3 against U SPORTS opposition so far in non-conference play, continue the tournament on Sautrday afternoon (1:00 ET) against York.