The Gustavus women’s basketball team went on a 24-2 run in the final seven minutes to close out a 64-48 win over the University of St. Thomas. First year guard Jess Vadnais scored a career high 22 points to lead the Gusties to their 23rd straight home win. Senior post Kristin Kachelmyer recorded her third double-double of the season, posting 15 points and 12 rebounds. Junior forward Erica Opdahl led the Tommies in scoring and rebounds with 16 points a six boards. With the win, Gustavus improved their overall record to 6-1 and 4-0 in the MIAC, while St. Thomas fell to 3-3 overall and 2-2 in the conference.
The Tommies dominated most of the first half, jumping out to an 11-0 lead that they didn’t relinquish for the rest of the half. With four minutes left on the clock, the Gusties went on an 8-2 run to bring the game within one, but a ten-foot jumper by junior guard Katy Slater put the Tommies up 32-29 going into the locker room. Gustavus shot a mere 34% in the half, as compared to nearly 52% for St. Thomas.
The Gusties again fell behind to start the second half, but relied on their tough pressure defense to keep the game within reach. Down by three with 7:30 left in the game, Jess Vadnais sank a three-pointer to tie the game at 46. The Gusties were relentless in the final 11 minutes, outscoring the Tommies 24-2, including eight-straight by Vadnais, en route to a 64-48 win.
Gustavus improved their shooting percentage to nearly 50% in the second half while holding the Tommies to only 29% shooting. The Gusties shot 37.5% from behind the arc during the game and 63.6% from the free throw line.
The Gusties will have nearly three weeks off before facing Carleton on January 3. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. in Northfield.