STORM LAKE, Iowa - The Loras College women's basketball team secured a dominant 78-58 road victory over Buena Vista University on Thursday afternoon at Siebens Fieldhouse.
Loras (9-13, 6-7 A-R-C) set the tone early, jumping out to an 18-10 lead in the first quarter. The Duhawks' defense created turnovers and converted second-chance opportunities, while Silvana Scarsella and Claire Wagner provided key baskets to build the early advantage.
Buena Vista (8-14, 3-10) responded in the second quarter, outscoring Loras 19-16 to cut the deficit to 34-29 at halftime. The Beavers gained momentum, but the Duhawks remained steady, with Lexi Beier and Kylie Rigby knocking down timely shots to maintain the lead.
Loras took control in the third quarter, extending its advantage to 55-47 with a 21-point effort. Rigby drained a pair of three-pointers, and the Duhawks' defense capitalized on turnovers to generate fast-break opportunities. In the final period, Loras dominated, outscoring Buena Vista 23-11 to seal the win.
Scarsella led all scorers with a season-high 25 points while adding eight rebounds. Wagner posted a double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds, while Beier contributed 13 points and three boards. The Duhawks shot 48.5% (33-of-68) from the field and a perfect 100% (3-of-3) from the free-throw line.
Bradi Krager paced Buena Vista with 17 points and nine rebounds, while Maddie Hilgendorf added 11 points and five boards. Tyme Boettcher chipped in 10 points, five rebounds, and two assists. The Beavers shot 33.3% (21-of-63) from the floor and 73.3% (11-of-15) from the line.
Up Next: Loras returns home for Senior Day, hosting Simpson College on Saturday, Feb. 15, at 2:00 p.m.