COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Nebraska Wesleyan women's basketball closed out the Colorado College Tip-Off Classic with a 94-67 loss to Pacific University (Ore.) on Saturday afternoon at Reid Arena. Despite the loss, the Prairie Wolves showcased offensive growth, led by strong performances from Brynn Sebek and Mackenzie Griffin.
How It Happened
The first quarter set the tone for an up-tempo game, with both teams trading baskets early. Nebraska Wesleyan opened with sharp shooting, as Mya Sohl and Maddie Demke combined for eight points to keep pace with the Boxers. Pacific edged ahead late in the quarter, capitalizing on their transition offense to take a 25-21 lead.
In the second quarter, Pacific's depth began to make an impact. The Boxers went on a 10-2 run that started midway through the period, fueled by back-to-back three-pointers and a put back layup. The Prairie Wolves responded with a strong push led by Tessa Skelton, who orchestrated the offense with two assists in the quarter. A second chance bucket from Mya Sohl brought NWU within single, but Pacific closed the half with a bucket of their own to lead 48-37 at the break.
The third quarter saw Nebraska Wesleyan's defense tighten, holding Pacific to just 12 points. Sebek provided a spark, scoring seven points during the period. However, the Prairie Wolves struggled to capitalize offensively, shooting just 23.5% from the field. A late three-point basket by Anisten Barnett cut the deficit to single digits, but Pacific still held a 60-51 lead heading into the final frame.
In the fourth quarter, Pacific caught fire, shooting 54.2% from the field and 46.2% from three-point range. The Boxers extended their lead with a barrage of three-pointers and second-chance points. Mackenzie Griffin continued her strong play, adding seven points in the quarter, and Anecia Toussaint chipped in with a bucket and a pair of free throws. Despite NWU's efforts, Pacific's 34-point outburst in the fourth sealed the game.
Inside the Numbers
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Nebraska Wesleyan: Shot 33.3% from the field (20-for-60), 35.3% from three-point range (6-for-17), and 75.0% from the free-throw line (21-for-28). The Prairie Wolves tallied 12 offensive rebounds and scored 29 bench points.
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Pacific: Shot 41.5% from the field (34-for-82), including 33.3% from three-point range (10-for-30). The Boxers dominated the paint with 42 points and converted 30 points off turnovers.
Key Performers
Up Next
Nebraska Wesleyan (0-3) will return to the road on Wednesday, November 20, against Grinnell College. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM as the Prairie Wolves seek their first win of the season.
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