DULUTH, Minn. – In what has become a trend lately, the Gustavus women’s basketball team used strong play in the second half to pick up a 77-53 win over St. Scholastica on Saturday afternoon. The Gusties improve to 10-2 overall and 8-1 in the MIAC, while the Saints drop to 0-13 overall and 0-11 in the league.
The first half proved to be touch and go with limited offensive production from both teams as the Gusties led 15-9 at the end of the first. Gustavus increased its lead slightly throughout the second period and took a 31-21 lead into halftime with Rachel Kawiecki (Fy., Richfield) pacing the offense with 12 points.
The Gusties came out strong in the third quarter with the first six points, which evolved into a 20-7 run. Gustavus finished the third quarter by outscoring the Saints 29-16 for a comfortable 60-38 advantage going into the fourth. The Gusties were able to control the final 10 minutes, outscoring the home team 17-15 in the fourth to hold on for the victory.
Gustavus shot 43.5 percent and was strong from the free throw line, making 13-of-16. The Saints were limited to 37 percent shooting. The Gusties won the rebound battle 39-30.
Kawiecki cooled off in the second half but still finished the game by leading the team with 14 points and seven rebounds. Anna Sanders (Jr., Vadnais Heights) also reached double figures with 12 points.
Gustavus next travels to Carleton on Wednesday night.