SAINT PAUL, Minn. - The Gustavus women's basketball team played shut down defense in the second half Monday night, resulting in a 75-33 victory at Macalester. The Gusties, ranked No. 5 in Division III in the latest WBCA Top 25 poll, secure the series sweep over the Scots while extending their winning streak to 12 games. 

The Gusties got off to a quick 11-2 lead in the first 5:32 of the game, highlighted by Emma Kniefel making her first three shots from the floor. Leading 24-6 after the first quarter, the Gusties had an uncharacteristic second quarter as the Scots went on a run, outscoring the Gusties 18-7 in the frame, making the difference 33-24 at half. 

Head Coach Laurie Kelly's halftime speech proved to provide inspiration for the Gusties as they scored 22 points in both the third and fourth quarters, while holding the Scots to six points in the third and just three points in the fourth. 

"Macalester is talented and they can certainly beat you if you don't give it your all," Kelly said. "We took our foot off the gas in the second quarter and credit to Mac for building momentum going into the half. We needed to roll our sleeves up and get back to work in the second half and our team did a great job of responding."

Gustavus shot 52.7 percent from the floor and out-rebounded the Scots 38-27. Kniefel led the offense with 15 points on 7-of-12 shooting, while adding six rebounds, two assists, and a steal. Syd Hauger and Rachel Kawiecki each posted 10 points. 

The Gusties continue their road trip Wednesday evening at Concordia. Game time is slated for 5:45 p.m. 
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