GRINNELL, Iowa — Lawrence University (11-3, 4-1 Midwest Conference) fell to Grinnell College (6-7, 3-2 Midwest Conference), 57-42, at Darby Gym as the home team capitalized on a strong first-quarter lead. Lawrence struggled offensively, scoring only two points in the final quarter.
Lawrence opened the first quarter with attempts to establish an early rhythm but faced challenges converting opportunities, shooting 3-for-16 from the field. Eager and Adams led with early defensive efforts, combining for three steals, but the team struggled to capitalize on these turnovers. Grinnell found success in the paint, scoring 12 points inside and closing the quarter with a 21-7 lead. Despite efforts from Brennan and Morey, who contributed both scoring and assists, Lawrence trailed significantly as the quarter concluded.
Lawrence initiated the second quarter with a scoring drive, highlighted by Morey's layup assisted by Brennan, narrowing the gap early on. The team maintained momentum with Kesti's 3-pointer, again assisted by Brennan, and later, a 3-pointer by Adams kept the pressure on the Pioneers. Despite Grinnell's efforts, including several 3-pointers from Anna Wu, Lawrence continued to find success with contributions from multiple players.
Lawrence's defense was instrumental, with Brennan and Kesti each securing steals, while Kesti also recorded a block. Eager capitalized on fast-break opportunities, sinking two free throws to further contribute to the score. As the quarter closed, a jumper by Moya, assisted by Morey, reduced the deficit to eight points. The quarter ended with Lawrence trailing 33–21.
Lawrence initiated a strong comeback effort in the third quarter, propelled by five successful three-pointers. Eager and Kesti each contributed from beyond the arc, with Kesti adding key assists, including one to Moya for a three-pointer that narrowed the gap. Defensively, the Vikings capitalized on turnovers, as Eager's steal led to a scoring opportunity, while Kesti's block halted a Grinnell drive. Despite Grinnell's efforts, including a late three-pointer, Lawrence closed the quarter tightly, reducing the lead to 44-40 in favor of Grinnell entering the final quarter.
Lawrence struggled offensively in the fourth quarter, missing all 14 field goal attempts. Despite these challenges, the team managed to score two points from free throws, courtesy of Adams and Brennan. Defensive efforts included rebounds from Eager, Deering, and Kesti, but Grinnell capitalized on turnovers and defensive rebounds to extend their lead. Grinnell maintained control throughout the quarter, converting two field goals, including a three-pointer by Ericksen, and adding eight points from free throws. Lawrence's persistent fouls added to Grinnell's opportunities at the line. The quarter closed with Grinnell securing a 57–42 victory over the Vikings.
Lawrence Top Performers
Olivia Kesti
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- 10 points
- 3 blocks
- 7 rebounds
Kate Adams
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- 11 points
- 6 rebounds
Sophie Morey
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- 6 points
- 7 rebounds
- 3 assists
Josie Eager
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- 5 points
- 5 rebounds
- 2 steals
