SAINT PETER, Minn. – After a slow start Wednesday night, the Gustavus women’s basketball team was able to create separation over St. Olaf to earn a 64-58 victory. The win moves the Gusties to 6-4 overall and 3-1 in the MIAC.
The first quarter didn’t see a made basket until 4:39 had passed and the score read 5-4 in favor of St. Olaf after 10 minutes. Both teams scored 15 points in the second quarter for a 20-19 Ole lead at the break. Through 20 minutes, the Gusties shot 7-25 (28 percent) and the Oles shot 9-23 (39.1 percent).
Gustavus picked it up in the second half with eight straight points to start the third quarter, gaining a lead it would not relinquish. The Gusties extended their lead to as much as 15 points midway through the fourth quarter and fended off an Ole comeback to secure the win.
Kendall Thompson (Sr., Eden Prairie, Minn.) led the Gusties with 23 points and five rebounds. Justine Lee (Sr., Dawson, Minn.) chipped in 10 points and four assists.
Gustavus shot 38.1 percent from the floor and made 13-of-16 free throws. St. Olaf committed 26 turnovers as the Gusties made 16 steals. The Black and Gold bench was key as well, outscoring the Ole bench 20-1.
Gustavus now enjoys Christmas break and returns to the court Dec. 29 at Coe College.