Box Score Bismarck, ND – Linda Murray had a monster second half and the University of Mary clinched third place in the Northern Sun as the Marauders held off Northern State University 78-73. The win gives the Marauders the third seed in the NSIC playoffs.

In the first round of the NSIC / Sanford Health Women's Basketball Tournament, the Marauders will host Winona State University on Wednesday, February 29, at 7 PM.
 
After posting three points and one rebound in the opening half, Murray exploded for 19 points and 13 rebounds and three blocks after intermission. The junior forward finished the day with 22 points, 14 rebounds and three blocks while making 7-of-11 shots from the floor.
 
Murray was instrumental in the Marauders big run of the second half. Leading by a point, U-Mary would score nine straight as Murray hit three layups and Kayla Schmidt would drain a three-pointer to increase the Marauders lead to 65-55 with 5:37 left in the game.
 
The Wolves wouldn't fold and Emily Becken drained a three-pointer to close within two points but Murray and Ali Collins followed with baskets in the paint for a six point U-Mary advantage. Northern eventually cut that deficit in half but Lindsey Sand knocked down two free throws with 34 seconds remaining and Murray added another at 00:22 and U-Mary was able to hold off the Wolves.
 
Shaunna Knife scored 18 points for the Marauders on a variety of moves to the basket. She added seven rebounds, three blocks and two assists. Collins had 12 points and four assists and Laura Petersen scored 12 points and snared seven rebounds.
 
Becken led the Wolves with a game-high 27 points. Sarah Hints added 14 points and 11 rebounds.
 
The Marauders conclude the regular season 18-8 overall and 15-7 in the NSIC. The Wolves finish the season 15-13 and 10-12.
 
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