Orange City, Iowa. – Northwestern (17-8) defeated Concordia Nebraska (13-11) with a final score of 82-73 on Saturday.
In the first quarter, the Red Raiders established an early lead with Molly Schany scoring the first basket of the game. Hali Anderson contributed significantly, hitting a 3-pointer with 6:13 left to extend the lead to 7-3. The Raiders maintained control, with Lexie Van Kekerix and Jenna Kluxdal each adding points in the paint, helping the team to a 17-12 advantage by the end of the quarter.
In the second quarter, the Raiders extended their lead with a strong performance, scoring 24 points compared to the Bulldogs' 20. Jenna Kluxdal made a significant impact by scoring consistently, including a 3-pointer at a crucial moment to increase the lead. Emily TerWee contributed with a series of successful plays in the paint, adding crucial points and securing defensive rebounds, which helped maintain the team's momentum.
In the third quarter, the team faced challenges maintaining their 9-point halftime advantage as the Bulldogs chipped away at the lead. Maren Nerem's offensive rebound and layup at 8:01 helped to keep the Raiders ahead at first, but the Bulldogs responded with several scoring runs, including a 3-pointer by Kendal Brigham at 2:38 that tied the game at 51. Molly Schany was instrumental in the Raiders' performance, contributing baskets in the paint and free throws, while the team's defensive rebounding efforts were led by players like Van Kekerix and Anderson. Despite the Raiders' efforts, the Bulldogs ended the quarter on a stronger note, outscoring the home team 24-12 and gaining a 3-point edge.
In the fourth quarter, the Raiders outscored the Bulldogs 29-17, securing the win. Schany started the quarter by converting a free throw, and Ashtyn Wobig made consecutive free throws at 8:12 to bring the score closer. Anderson contributed significantly with a 3-pointer at 2:45 and added a layup shortly after. Maddie Pottebaum tied the game at 60 with a jumper at 5:08, and later, Van Kekerix's layup at 4:04 gave the Raiders a lead that they maintained. Anderson's free throws in the final minute extended the lead, and Nerem sealed the quarter with two free throws, bringing the final score to 82-73.
GAME NOTES
Up Next: The Raiders will travel to Hastings, Neb. to take on Hastings at 2 PM on February 15th.
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