The Gustavus women’s basketball team played Dakota Wesleyan University in an exhibition match at the Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota on Tuesday night. The Tigers rallied in the second half to defeat the Gusties 59-47. Gustavus led by eight at the half (31-23), Dakota Wesleyan outscored the Gusties 36-16 in the final 20 minutes to win the exhibition game by 12 points. Katie Layman and Emily Nelson both scored 10 points to lead Gustavus. Dakota Wesleyan, which had already played four games, is coached by former Gustie assistant Aaron Kahl.
The Gusties shot well in the first half making 12-of-24 from the field including 2-of-5 from behind the arc. Julia Schultz was 3-of-3 from the field, while first year Molly Geske was 2-for-3. Gustavus also outrebounded the Tigers 18-15. Emily Nelson led all scorers in the first 20 minutes with nine points.
The Gusties were not able to continue their strong play in the second half as they cooled off from the field, shooting 31 percent (6-19), and turned the ball over 15 times. Gustavus also lost its edge on the boards being outrebounded by Dakota Wesleyan 20-9. Katie Layman scored eight of the team’s 16 second half points on 4-of-5 shooting from the field.
Gustavus will open regular season play on Friday, Nov. 28 against Austin College at 5:00 pm at the Southwestern University Thanksgiving Classic in Georgetown, Texas. The Gusties will play host Southwestern on Saturday at 1:00 pm.