The Wolves led by as much as 20 points on Saturday, but it wasn't enough to thwart Prairie State as Joliet fell, 87-86.

"After a really good first half, here is another game we played relaxed on the third quarter," Joliet coach Shaun Sanderson said. "Basketball is a game of runs but this week we have not played with a sense of urgency when we have a big lead."

Earlier in the week, the Wolves (12-12) led Bryant and Stratton by as much as 21 points but ultimately fell in overtime.

"Mental preparation for both halves is so important this time of year," Sanderson said. "We have to do a better job of protecting leads and executing the game plan late in the game."

Despite the loss, Kiyah Robertson had a big night for the Wolves, scoring 31 points while pulling in eight rebounds and recording three blocks.

"I felt pretty confident going into the game and I feel like the team did too," she said. "We had great energy and got on a run. We just always seem to struggle in the third quarter and then we are fighting for a win by the fourth, and it doesn't end up being enough."

She remained optimistic about the season, adding: "We still have a lot to work on but I think the next couple games will be good for us."

Ashanti Brown finished with 16 points, seven assists, six rebounds and a pair of steals. Maggie Grady and Breanna Fogle each scored 11 points, with Grady also adding six rebounds, four assists and two steals.

Joliet is back in action on Monday as the Wolves travel to Governor's State at 2 p.m.