MANKATO, Minn. — The Minnesota State women's basketball team (4-0, 0-0 NSIC) defeated the UW-Eau Claire (2-1, 0-0 WIAC), 91-49, at the Taylor, capitalizing on 39 points off turnovers to maintain their undefeated start.
"It was great to be back in the friendly confines of the Taylor Center," said Head Coach Emilee Thiesse. "Our fans showed up with great support for our home opener. We were pleased with our defensive efforts tonight and brought a great rebounding presence throughout the game. Our depth once again has proven to be a great asset for our team."
The Mavericks were led by senior Natalie Bremer, who finished with 12 points, five steals, and a block to anchor the defensive effort. Senior guard
Adeline Kent added nine points and contributed two steals in the backcourt.
Ava Stier helped control the boards with six rebounds while also tallying two steals. Rounding out the effort,
Shantell Harden provided four points, three steals, and two assists to support both ends of the floor.
Minnesota State opened the first quarter with strong defensive pressure, forcing 12 turnovers and converting them into 14 points. The home team dominated the paint, scoring 20 points, and took advantage of second-chance opportunities with nine offensive rebounds. With a balanced attack, the Mavericks had six different players assist on made baskets, while Rhyan Holmgren led a fast break that contributed to six quick points. The team closed the quarter on a high note, extending the lead to 28–6.
MSU shifted momentum at the start of the second quarter with a quick 3-pointer from Mackenzie Schweim, assisted by Stier. Throughout the quarter, the Mavericks capitalized on turnovers, generating points off turnovers and fast breaks. Notably, they scored 14 points in the paint and maintained defensive pressure with five steals. The home team controlled the boards, securing 16 total rebounds, which limited the Blugolds' second-chance opportunities. Minnesota State closed the quarter with a strong push, including a fast-break layup by Bremer in the final seconds. The quarter ended with the Mavericks extending their lead, setting the score at 49-13.
Minnesota State opened the third quarter with a decisive series of defensive plays, including eight steals, which set the tone for the remainder of the game. Bremer's layup off a fast break at 9:41 initiated the momentum, contributing to a strong offensive run. Despite Eau Claire's attempts to counter with fast break points, the Mavericks maintained control through effective ball movement, recording five assists.
As the quarter progressed, Kent's three-pointer at the 7:10 mark further extended the lead. Minnesota State's defensive pressure forced 11 turnovers, limiting the Blugolds' scoring opportunities. The quarter concluded with the Mavericks leading 71–29, having outscored their opponents 22–16 in the third quarter.
The Mavericks maintained momentum in the fourth quarter, capitalizing on turnovers and fast-break opportunities. Early on, Hannah Leverson's steal set up a fast-break layup by
August Palmer, extending the lead. The team continued to apply pressure with steals from
Addison Hoof and contributions from
Natalie Mueller, who added crucial points in the paint. Despite the Blugolds' attempts to close the gap with successful three-pointers and free throws, Minnesota State's defense remained effective, securing seven steals in the quarter. The quarter concluded with both teams scoring 20 points each, leaving the Mavericks with the victory, 91–49.
In their next matchup, MSU will host Colorado School of Mines on Friday, Nov. 21 at Taylor Center. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m. CT. and the contest can be viewed live on NSIC Network.
