Winona, Minn. – The Minnesota State University Women's basketball team traveled to Winona, Minn., and defeated the Winona State Warriors 77-65 after strong performances from Kirstin Klitzke and Kristi Fett.  With the win the Mavericks improve to to 5-2 (2-1 NSIC), while the Warriors suffered their first loss of the season and fell to 7-1 (3-1 NSIC).

The first quarter began with the Mavericks rolling out a 6-0 lead before the Warriors managed to slow down the pace and eventually tie the game at 12 going into the second quarter.  Minnesota State once again started the second quarter with a 6-0 run before Winona State went a 6-0 run of their own to tie the game at 18.  The teams traded baskets down the stretch before a pair of free throws from Klitzke gave the Mavericks a 26-25 lead at halftime.  

In the third quarter, the teams traded baskets early before MSU went on a 6-0 run to finish the frame and take a 51-44 lead into the final quarter.  A layup from Rylee Menster and Fett on back to back possessions expanded the Maverick lead to 11.

The Warriors once again responded with a rally, taking a two point lead with 3:17 to go in the game.   Minnesota State did as they had all night though, and went on a 10-0 run, sparked by seven points from Taylor Drost, ultimately pushing ahead to earn the 77-65 win.

Klitzke led all scorers with 17 points and added four rebounds while Fett finished the game with her first double double of the season, scoring 15 points to go along with 12 boards.  Drost and Shea Fuller both scored in double figures with 11 and 10 points respectively.  As a team, the Mavericks forced the Warriors into 17 turnovers and converted on 24-29 free throw attempts.  

The Mavericks will travel to face Upper Iowa tomorrow afternoon. Tip-off is set for 3:30 p.m.