Scoring their second highest point total of the season, the Wildcat basketball team picked up a 92-80 win against Hamline Saturday afternoon. It was Senior Day at Butler Center, and seniors Amy Battey, Jenna Olson, and Molly Peterson did not disappoint the crowd in their final home game at St. Catherine.
St. Kate’s crept out to a 20-9 lead with 9:56 remaining until halftime off of a three-pointer from Sonja Ellingson. But Hamline battled back to get within three, 22-19, at the 5 minute mark. The Wildcats were able to extend the lead to 44-38 at halftime behind baskets from Molly Peterson and Jenna Olson.
The Wildcats continued to increase their lead in the second half, as they converted free-throw attempts and grabbed valuable rebounds to control the clock. St. Kate’s made 16 of 23 second half free-throw attempts and out-rebounded Hamline 22-15 to secure the MIAC win. For the game, St. Kate’s went 11 of 22 behind the arch and shot an impressive 56.6% from the field (14 of 20 in the second half).
Ellingson led the Wildcats with 21 points and 7 rebounds, followed by Peterson with 19 points and 5 rebounds and by Laura Kalbfell with 14 points and 8 rebounds. Olson added 10 points, 3 steals, and 4 assists, and Battey recorded 12 points and 6 boards.
The win brings the Wildcats’ record to 10-10 in the MIAC, 11-12 overall.
St. Kate’s travels to Moorhead to play Concordia on Wednesday, February 17th at 7:30 pm.
Box Score