SAINT PETER, Minn. - No. 15 Gustavus women's basketball treated its home crowd at Gus Young Court to a decisive 76-58 season-opening win over UW-Stout on Wednesday night. 

The Gusties started quick with an 8-2 lead in the first 2:35 and ensued with 10 consecutive points before the Blue Devils ended a four-minute dry spell. A three-pointer by Morgan Kelly at the end of the first quarter gave the home team a 22-7 lead after the first 10 minutes. UW-Stout played its best ball in the second quarter by matching the Gusties 21-21 on the scoreboard, but the home team maintained a 15-point lead at halftime, 43-28. 

Gustavus grew its lead to 24 points twice in the third quarter and held at comfortable 62-42 advantage entering the fourth. The Gusties gained their largest lead of the game at 70-45 on a fast break layup by Izzy Quick with 4:38 remaining in the game. And with 1:41 left in the game and leading by 22, Coach Kelly was able to clear her bench, which included four first-years making their first career appearances. 

The Gusties shot 60.4 percent from the floor and went 17-for-23 from the free throw line. The defense held the Blue Devils to a 35.4 shooting percentage and forced 19 turnovers. The home team also controlled the boards, out-rebounding the visitors 31-19. 

Five Gusties reached double figure scoring, led by Kylie Baranick with 16 points on 6-of-11 shooting. Baranick also led the team with six rebounds and six assists. Kelly was next with 15 points, including four rebounds and four assists. Rachel Kawiecki was a perfect 5-for-5 from the floor for 10 points while adding four boards and four assists. 

Gustavus hosts St. Olaf to open MIAC play Tuesday night. 
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