Dickinson, ND- The Blue Hawk women's basketball team lose home opener to Brandon University.
On Saturday, Oct 20th the Blue Hawks took on Brandon University from Manitoba, Canada. In the first quarter, the Blue Hawks came out strong draining four three pointers. Going into the second quarter the Blue Hawks led 27-15, but a couple of three pointers from Brandon University's Hailey Maas and the Blue Hawks were tied 31-31. Brandon University led the rest of the quarter increases the lead by nine. In the third quarter, Rojin Karahan scored a quick six points to put the Blue Hawks within two of Brandon (41-43). The Blue Hawks had six turnovers and Brandon was up 44-54. At the end of the third, the Blue Hawks were down 51-65. With 3:25 left in the fourth, the Blue Hawks score a free throw to be within five of Brandon University, but it wasn't enough and the Hawks would lose 72-83.
As a team, the Blue Hawks shot 75% from the free throw line making 21 out of 28 attempts. The Hawks had 47 rebounds, 12 that were offensive and 35 defensive rebounds. The area where Brandon capitalized was turnovers. The Blue Hawks had nineteen turnovers and the Bobcats only had nine.
On offense, senior Riley Helmick led the way with nineteen points. Riley had four three pointers and was three for three from the free throw line. Next was junior Ashlie Larson with sixteen points. Ashlee made five field goals and three three pointers. Caleigh McClenhan hadded another ten points and Rojin Karahan had eight. Ashlie Larson led the way in assists with five, while Celeste Pantoja had four.
On defense, Rojin Karahan led the way with fifteen rebounds, twelve of those were defensive rebounds and three offensive rebounds. Freshman Brook Janz added another seven rebounds and Celeste Pantoja had six.
"Saturday was a tough loss but a good learning experience for us. WE have a young inside game and it will take time to develop. We have the pieces. With time and experience I believe we will be playing at the level we need to be successful this year," stated head coach Liz Lewis.
Next on the schedule, the Blue Hawks travel to the University of Jamestown to take on the Jimmies on October 22nd at 6pm MT.
