ELMHURST, Ill. - The Elmhurst University women's basketball team clinched a narrow victory over Eureka College, 73-71, in a closely contested game at R.A. Faganel Hall on Sunday (Nov. 24) afternoon.
The Bluejays improved their overall record to 5-0 with the win, while the Red Devils fell to 1-2 on the season.
Elmhurst basketball's standout players included several key contributors. Rowan Cusack led the team with five assists, showcasing her playmaking ability. Kristin Bukata was a top scorer with 17 points, highlighted by five baskets and six free throws. Sierra Gibson excelled defensively with three steals, providing critical stops. Cierra Steemer contributed significantly with six baskets and two blocks, demonstrating a strong inside presence.
HOW IT HAPPENED
In the first quarter, Elmhurst established an early advantage, scoring the initial bucket with two free throws by Bukata. The quarter saw multiple lead changes, with both teams exchanging scoring runs, including a notable sequence where Elmhurst's Steemer blocked a shot, leading to a layup by Cusack at 5:00, putting the Bluejays ahead 7-4. Brin Hultz of Eureka responded with a 3-pointer to tie the game at 7-7. Elmhurst then took control towards the end of the quarter, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Lindsay Novak, extending their lead to 25-15. Elmhurst's defense forced seven turnovers from Eureka, contributing to their 10-point lead by the end of the quarter.
In the second quarter, Elmhurst outscored Eureka 17-15, maintaining a steady lead throughout. The Bluejays started strong with a jumper by Steemer, taking the score to 27-15 early on. Eureka attempted to close the gap, with Alannah Jackson and Miya Webb contributing key points, including Webb's successful 3-pointer at 1:30. Elmhurst responded with Novak's 3-pointer, extending their lead to 40-27. The quarter concluded with Elmhurst's MC Brown scoring two free throws, securing a 42-30 advantage at the end of the quarter.
In the third quarter, Elmhurst outscored Eureka 12-8, securing their lead with consistent defensive efforts and key plays in the paint. The Bluejays began the quarter with a jumper from Bukata and maintained momentum with a layup from Brown at 8:35, assisted by Cusack. Despite Eureka's struggles with shooting, Brin Hultz managed to score a layup at 6:50, contributing to Eureka's points. Elmhurst's defense was highlighted by Steemer, who recorded multiple rebounds and a block, helping maintain their lead. The Bluejays' effective play in the paint and on the boards helped them finish the quarter ahead.
In the fourth quarter, Eureka mounted a strong offensive push, outscoring Elmhurst 33-19. The quarter began with Eureka's Miya Webb contributing significantly with multiple free throws and a 3-pointer. Brin Hultz also played a pivotal role for Eureka, hitting a 3-pointer at a critical moment to tie the game at 71. Despite Eureka's effort, the Bluejays managed to maintain a slight edge, with Bukata scoring a layup to secure a 73-71 victory. Key moments included Cusack's late 3-pointer and successful free throws that helped Elmhurst seal the win.
UP NEXT
The Bluejays will face Manchester University on the road next Saturday, November 30, at 1:00 p.m. CT in North Manchester, Indiana.
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