APPLETON, Wis. — Lawrence University (5-0, 0-0 Midwest Conference) defeated Marian University (0-5, 0-1 NACC), 71-46, at Alexander Gym, thanks to a 16-steal effort that helped generate 24 points off turnovers.

The game began with the Vikings taking control early, as Kate Adams opened the scoring with a jumper. Adams was instrumental throughout the first quarter, contributing significantly with two 3-pointers and a pair of free throws, helping Lawrence build a substantial lead. The Vikings' defense was equally effective, forcing 13 turnovers and securing seven steals, with Josie Eager and Olivia Kesti each recording steals that led to fast-break opportunities. The Sabres managed just eight points in the quarter, five of which came from Chelsea King, including a three-point shot at 6:45. By the end of the first quarter, the Vikings held a commanding 27-8 lead.

Sophie Morey led the Vikings with a strong performance in the paint, scoring two layups early in the second quarter to extend their lead to 31-10. Adams contributed significantly with efficient scoring, netting a layup and a free throw to push the score to 39-12. Marian's Brianna Guelig responded with a three-pointer, narrowing the gap to 39-15. Despite a late surge by the Sabres, including a three-pointer from Kaitlin Leonard at the 3:00 mark, Lawrence maintained a slim lead, ending the quarter 43-23.

Marian's Nyedeng Awak scored early in the third quarter with a layup, bringing the score to 25-43. Lawrence's Charlotte Brennan recorded multiple offensive rebounds, assisting Adams on a successful three-pointer at 8:23, pushing their lead to 46-25. Marian's Emily Eastham responded with a three-pointer to narrow the gap to 46-28. Lawrence maintained momentum with Morey's layup at 7:19, followed by a tip-in at 6:28, extending their lead to 50-28. Despite King's efforts for the Sabres, scoring a layup at 5:45, the Vikings' steady scoring, including a jumper by Josie Chose at 3:24, kept the home team ahead, closing the quarter with a 56-35 advantage.

Lawrence secured a decisive quarter with a strong defensive performance and efficient scoring. Morey opened the period with a layup at 9:44, assisted by Kesti, setting the tone for the home team. Brennan added a three-pointer, contributing to Lawrence's lead. Marian struggled with turnovers, committing seven in the quarter, while Lawrence capitalized with 15 points, sealing the game with a 71-46 victory.

Lawrence Top Performers

Kate Adams  
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- 32 points  
- 6 steals  
- 10 field goals made  
- 6/7 free throws made  

Sophie Morey  
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- 20 points  
- 11 rebounds  
- 10 field goals made  

Olivia Kesti  
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- 6 rebounds  
- 5 assists  
- 2 blocks  

Charlotte Brennan  
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- 7 assists  
- 4 rebounds  
- 2 steals