Hawks Battle Hard but Fall Short in Brookings Showdown

Grand Forks, N.D. – The University of North Dakota women’s basketball squad came up short against South Dakota State, 87-73, on Saturday afternoon at the First Bank & Trust Arena. This defeat put the Fighting Hawks at 8-11 overall and 3-3 in Summit League competition.

North Dakota began slowly, trailing 26-14 after the first quarter as South Dakota State managed an impressive 53.8% (7-of-13) shooting accuracy from the field. Walker Demers led the quarter with five points including one three-pointer and two free throws.

The Hawks bounced back with a 56.3% (9-of-16) shooting rate in the second quarter, but the Jackrabbits hit 64.7% (11-of-17) to maintain a 49-37 lead at halftime. Jocelyn Schiller topped the quarter with nine points, which included two three-pointers.

With solid contributions from Jocelyn Schiller and Kiera Pemberton, who contributed a combined total of 11 points while shooting 50% (6-of-12), the Hawks outscored their rivals in the third quarter, 20-19. UND had no turnovers and managed one steal during that period.

The Fighting Hawks exhibited strong determination in the fourth quarter during a crucial stretch to remain competitive. Jocelyn Schiller led with six points this period. However, despite their hard work, UND couldn’t close the gap, ultimately losing to SDSU.

After a week’s break, the Fighting Hawks will return to action as they travel to North Dakota State on Saturday, January 25.

 

Postgame Observations:

• Jocelyn Schiller was the top scorer for UND with 19 points, making 6-of-10 from the field, 3-of-4 from long range, and 4-of-6 at the charity stripe.
• Kiera Pemberton added 15 points and six rebounds, successfully scoring on 7-of-15 attempts.
• UND recorded a shooting accuracy of 47.4% (27-of-57) from the field, while SDSU achieved 53.2% (33-of-62).
• From three-point range, the Hawks connected on 38.1% (8-of-21) compared to SDSU’s 33.3% (6-of-18).
• At the foul line, UND managed 11-of-14 (78.6%) against the Jackrabbits’ 15-of-17 (88.2%).
• The Jackrabbits had a 34-26 edge in rebounding, including 10 offensive boards.
• The Hawks limited their turnovers to only 10 while achieving 11 assists.

 
Game Summary:
Q1: UND 14, SDSU 26
Q2: UND 23, SDSU 23
Q3: UND 20, SDSU 19
Q4: UND 16, SDSU 19

For additional details regarding UND women’s basketball, visit FightingHawks.com or follow @UNDwbasketball on social platforms.