GREELEY, CO – The University of North Dakota women's basketball team faced a challenging battle and ultimately fell to Northern Colorado, 65-47, on Saturday afternoon at the Bank of Colorado Arena. With the loss, the Fighting Hawks dropped to 3-6 on the season, while Northern Colorado improved to 7-2.
The Fighting Hawks got an early jump with a bucket by
Kiera Pemberton just 15 seconds into the game. The Bears set the tone early, jumping out to a 15-7 lead. UND struggled to find their rhythm offensively, shooting just 20% from the field. Meanwhile, Northern Colorado capitalized on their opportunities.
Jocelyn Schiller led the frame with three points off free throws.
UND upped their scoring, with 10 points in the second frame. NoDak shot 36.4% from the field, going 4-of-11 and added two points from the free throw line. Despite keeping the Bears to just 5-of-15 and one free throw, the Hawks struggled to chip away at the deficit and entered halftime trailing 27-17.
The Fighting Hawks found their stride in the third quarter, outscoring the Bears 22-18.
Kiera Pemberton ignited UND's offense with nine points, including several impressive drives to the basket.
Walker Demers added key baskets inside, while the Hawks forced five turnovers. From the field the Hawks sank 9-of-13 baskets. Despite cutting the lead to single digits, Northern Colorado maintained the advantage, holding a 45-39 edge going into the final period.
Northern Colorado sealed the victory with a dominant fourth quarter, outscoring UND 20-8.
Jayla Owen added three points from beyond the arc and
Walker Demers went 3-of-4 from the charity strip.
The Hawks will continue on the road with a matchup against the Drake Bulldogs on Thursday, December 12 at 5 p.m.
Postgame Notes:
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Kiera Pemberton led UND with 13 points and four rebounds. Making this her ninth game hitting double-digits.
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Walker Demers contributed 12 points, three rebounds, two steals.
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Jocelyn Schiller led the team with four assists.
• UND shot 37.2% (16-of-43) from the field and just 6.3% (1-of-16) from three-point range, compared to UNC who shot 45.5% (25-of-55) from the field and 47.1% (8-of-17) from the perimeter.
• Northern Colorado outrebounded North Dakota 32-29.
How It Happened:
• Q1: UND 7, UNCO 15
• Q2: UND 10, UNCO 12
• Q3: UND 22, UNCO 18
• Q4: UND 8, UNCO 20
For more information on North Dakota women's basketball, visit FightingHawks.com or follow @UNDwbasketball on social media.
