WAUKESHA, Wis. -- The North Park women's basketball team journeyed north to face the No. 20 Carroll Pioneers this Saturday afternoon. Despite a close first quarter, where NPU trailed just 27-23, the Pioneers ran away with the 92-58 win.
The game tipped off with an intense first quarter as both teams traded baskets in the paint. The Vikings were lights out, shooting 64.7% (11-for-17) from the field, while the Pioneers weren't far behind at 50.0% (10-for-20). Carroll capitalized on the free throws, going 6-for-7 while the Vikings managed only one attempt. The Pioneers took a 27-23 lead into the second quarter, where the Vikings hoped to keep their pace.
The second quarter showcased a different level from Carroll on both ends of the court, outscoring the Vikings 32-14 in the second. Carroll matched their shooting percentage of the first quarter, going 12-for-24 from the field and adding a 4-for-6 mark from beyond the arc. The Pioneers' defense tightened, allowing only 14 shots from the Vikings, in which 6 found the net.
Carroll maintained their momentum through halftime, shooting just under 50.0% while going 9-for-19. Their defensive efforts once again kept North Park from catching up, shooting 5-for-14 from the field and only 1-for-7 from beyond the arc.
Both teams struggled in the fourth, each making only a pair of field goals. North Park shot 2-for-17 and Carroll went 2-for-10.
Quick Hits:
- Carroll had three players in double-digit points: Natalie Gricius (24), Olivia Rangel (23), Allison Thompson (11).
- Carroll finished with a 45.2% (33-73) mark from the field
- Victoria Perry led the Viking offense with 15 points on 4-of-9 shooting
What's Next?
The Vikings will play their last home game of the season against Carthage College this coming Wednesday night, Feb. 7. Tipoff at NPU Gym is set for 7:00 PM.
