Neb. Wesleyan NWU 4-15,1-9 American Rivers

Central (IA) Cent 8-11,3-7 American Rivers

Neb. Wesleyan NWU

4-15,1-9 American Rivers

Final

Jan. 28, 2026

Central (IA) Cent

8-11,3-7 American Rivers

Score By Periods
Team	1	2	3	4	F
Neb. Wesleyan NWU	2	12	14	15	43
Central (IA) Cent	18	20	17	17	72

Summary
Box Score

Game Recap: Women's Basketball | 1/28/2026 7:33:00 PM

Women's Basketball Shows Resolve in Road Test at Central

PELLA, Iowa – Nebraska Wesleyan University battled through a difficult road environment on Wednesday night but ultimately fell 72-43 to Central College in American Rivers Conference women's basketball action at Kuyper Gymnasium. The loss moves Nebraska Wesleyan to 12-21 all-time against Central, with the Dutch winning the last eight meetings.

HOW IT HAPPENED

The Prairie Wolves (4-15, 1-9 A-R-C) struck first, as Anastyn Pettlon opened the game with a strong take to the rim on Nebraska Wesleyan's opening possession. From there, Central found its rhythm early, stringing together an extended run as shots proved hard to come by for the visitors. The Dutch capitalized on second chances and defensive pressure to build an 18-2 advantage by the end of the opening quarter.

Nebraska Wesleyan responded with improved energy in the second period. Maddie Demke and Carney Black helped stabilize the offense, each connecting on a layup and a three-pointer to spark the Prairie Wolves. Peyton Tritz added a pair of free throws as Nebraska Wesleyan looked to chip away at the deficit. Despite the push, Central maintained control, outscoring NWU 20-12 in the quarter to take a 38-14 lead into halftime.

The Prairie Wolves continued to compete coming out of the break. Demke found her groove offensively, while Black controlled the glass and anchored the defense inside. Central matched Nebraska Wesleyan shot for shot in the third quarter, edging the frame 17-14 to extend its lead to 55-28 heading into the final 10 minutes.

Nebraska Wesleyan closed the game with purpose in the fourth quarter, nearly matching the hosts point-for-point. Pettlon knocked down a pair of three-pointers, continuing a strong first season in a Prairie Wolves uniform, while Demke consistently attacked the basket. Central closed out the contest with a 17-15 fourth quarter to secure the 72-43 final.

GAME NOTES

Maddie Demke (Sioux City, Iowa/Bishop Heelan) led Nebraska Wesleyan with 13 points in the conference matchup.
Anastyn Pettlon (Maryville, Mo./Northwest Missouri State) added 11 points and now has 238 points in her first season with the Prairie Wolves. Her two three-pointers on the night give her 45 made triples this season, putting her within striking distance of the program's single-season top 10.
Carney Black (Tilden, Neb./Southeast Community College) delivered a strong all-around effort, leading the team with 14 rebounds and recording her 23rd career block.