SAINT PETER, Minn. - In a rematch of last year's MIAC women's basketball semifinal, Gustavus posted a similar result with a decisive 68-45 win over Saint Benedict on Thursday night at Gus Young Court. The Gusties, ranked No. 5 in Division III by d3hoops.com, improve to 24-2 overall and will host Concordia on Saturday afternoon in a rematch of last year's MIAC championship.
Gustavus scored the first five points of tonight's game and never relinquished the lead. The Gusties led by a 17-3 margin in the first seven minutes, highlighted by
Syd Hauger scoring nine points and the defense limiting the Bennies to 1-of-7 shooting from the field. The home squad led 21-11 after the first quarter and created a wide margin of separation in the second quarter, outscoring the Bennies 25-9 in the frame for a comfortable 46-20 lead at halftime. Hauger finished a strong first half wit 15 points on 7-of-9 shooting.
The Gusties put the game out of reach in the third quarter, increasing their lead to as much as 35 points and Coach
Laurie Kelly was able to clear her bench in the fourth quarter.
Gustavus shot just 42 percent from the field with
Emma Kniefel leading the way with 18 points and seven assists. Hauger added 15 points, all in the first half, while
Rachel Kawiecki contributed 10 points.
Morgan Kelly led the team on the boards with eight rebounds off the bench.
Gustavus vs. Concordia for the MIAC championship and an automatic berth to the NCAA tournament is set for 3 p.m. Saturday in Saint Peter.
