HASTINGS, Neb. - Nebraska Wesleyan ran into a tough road environment Monday afternoon as the Prairie Wolves fell 63-34 to Hastings College at Lynn Farrell Arena in Hastings, Nebraska. NWU dropped to 3-8 on the season while the Broncos, receiving votes in the NAIA Top 25, improved to 10-4 after controlling the tempo on both ends of the floor.
HOW IT HAPPENED
First Quarter
Hastings wasted little time setting the tone, opening the scoring with a smooth jump shot as the Broncos jumped out early. Nebraska Wesleyan generated looks but misfired on several early attempts, allowing Hastings to build momentum. Five different Bronco players found the scoring column in the opening frame, while Carney Black knocked down a late jumper to keep NWU within striking distance. Hastings held a 16-9 advantage after one.
Second Quarter
The Prairie Wolves showed energy to start the second, as Maddie Demke and Peyton Tritz each stepped to the line for back-to-back free throws. Hastings responded by turning defensive pressure into transition opportunities, stretching the lead despite Nebraska Wesleyan's efforts to settle into the half-court offense. The Broncos took a 26-19 lead into the break.
Third Quarter
Anastyn Pettlon sparked NWU coming out of halftime, accounting for the Prairie Wolves' first five points of the third quarter to cut the deficit to four at 28-24. Hastings answered with a decisive run fueled by perimeter shooting and trips to the free throw line, creating separation as the quarter progressed. Rhyanne Mackling snapped a 13-0 Bronco run with a free throw at the 2:35 mark, but Hastings maintained control entering the final period.
Fourth Quarter
The Prairie Wolves continued to compete, but the gap proved too large to overcome. Hastings outscored NWU 13-9 in the fourth quarter, closing out the contest while limiting Nebraska Wesleyan's offensive rhythm down the stretch.
Game Notes
- Carney Black's 15 rebounds tied a season high for the Prairie Wolves in an individual rebounding performance.
- Anastyn Pettlon recorded her eighth double-figure scoring performance of the season, leading NWU in scoring for the second straight game.
- Alison Davis exceeded her season average on the glass while exceeding her points-per-game mark for the fourth time this year.
UP NEXT
- Nebraska Wesleyan returns home to close out the 2025 calendar year on New Year's Eve, hosting Grinnell College at 1 p.m. inside Snyder Arena.
