SIOUX CITY, Iowa — Northwestern College (5-3, 2-2) pulled off a thrilling win against Morningside College (6-3, 2-3), outscoring them 86-80 and an explosive 29-point second quarter. The Red Raiders' bench shone brightly, adding 43 points to clinch the victory at RVSC-Allee Gym.

The game kicked off with the Raiders hustling for defensive rebounds and seizing second-chance opportunities. Despite a few early turnovers, the Raiders closed in on the Mustangs, thanks to Aubrey Metzger's layup at 5:58.

Keeping the pressure on, Ellie Karolevitz converted a three-point play at 4:54, followed by a three from Maddie Pottebaum at 4:06, keeping Northwestern on Morningside's heels. Karolevitz capped the first quarter with a layup, narrowing Morningside's lead to 18-15.

The second quarter was all about Northwestern's momentum shift. Margo Schuiteman's quick layup at 9:10 and Allison Piercy's layup plus a free throw tied the game at 22. Schuiteman's jumper at 7:44 put the Raiders ahead, as they continued to dominate with strong defense and smart passing. Ashtyn Wobig and Piercy each nailed key three-pointers, stretching the lead to seven. The quarter ended with Piercy's buzzer-beater three-pointer, giving Northwestern a 44-37 advantage.

In the third quarter, Kylie Foss made a statement with a steal at 9:47, but turnovers marked the early minutes for both teams. Northwestern kept up the pressure with solid plays in the paint, Metzger's layup at 5:14 being a highlight. Despite a fierce defensive effort, Morningside managed to tie it up at 62 by the end of the third quarter.

As the fourth quarter began, Wobig's steal set up Jenna Kluxdal's jumper, knotting the score at 64. The Raiders then launched a decisive 7–0 run, highlighted by Kluxdal's three-pointer off a Karolevitz assist, pushing them to a 71–64 lead.

The Raiders held their ground, capitalizing on turnovers. Foss snagged a key steal while Kluxdal coolly sank four free throws, extending the lead to 73–64. Piercy's three-pointer at 2:36 widened the gap to 78–68, marking the largest lead of the quarter.

Morningside tried to fight back, but the Raiders' sharp free-throw shooting, including four clutch shots by Wobig, sealed the deal. Northwestern closed the game strong, securing the win at 86-80 with steadfast defense and timely baskets.

GAME NOTES

• Elli Karolevitz had a career high in points with 16
• Allison Piercy led the way scoring with 17 points and four threes
• The Raiders were active on defense with 11 steals, four of them coming from Kylie Foss
• Northwestern had an amazing second quarter, going 10-13 (79.9%) from the floor and 4-5 (80%) from beyond the arc.
• Aubrey Metzger was great protecting the rim with 3 blocks

Up Next: The Red Raiders hit the road to face Hastings on Saturday, Dec. 6, at 2 p.m. in Hastings, Nebraska.

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