Box Score SIOUX FALLS, SD - Playing in the Sanford Pentagon for the first time since the 2022 NSIC Postseason, the University of Mary Women's Basketball team met a strong Augustana Vikings squad Friday night. After a 2-0 weekend Jan. 6-7 against the NSIC South, the Marauders were handed a tough loss 77-57 by one of the conference's standouts this season. 

Megan Voit struck for the game's first five points with a layup and a trey on the Marauders (8-6, 7-4 NSIC) first two possessions. While Augustana (14-3, 8-3 NSIC) was slow to get going through the first few minutes of the game, they finished the first quarter strong, blazing to an 11-0 run that was finally broken by a Ryleigh Wacha layup just before the buzzer. 

The Vikings found their stride inside with Michaela Jewett and Aislinn Duffy combining for 17 points in their 39-30 halftime lead over the Marauders. Carly Kottsick would keep the scoring limited with an impressive four steals in the first half. 

UMary's shooting cooled off early in the third quarter, finishing the frame making five of 15. While the three-point shooting was off for Augustana, they continued strong play inside the arc with Duffy and Jewett leading the way for the 59-44 score entering the final ten minutes. 

Despite early fourth-quarter scores by Megan Zander, Moriku Hakim, and Zoe Velde, the Marauders could not mount a comeback as they fell 57-77 to Augustana. Board dominance and tough defense proved to be a difference maker as Augustana won the rebound margin 45-31 and forced 21 Mary turnovers. 

INSIDE THE BOX SCORE
Ryleigh Wacha led the Marauders scoring with 14 points while blocking two shots and swiping a steal.

Megan Voit hit three treys apart of a 13-point night, and also grabbed five rebounds and a steal. 

Megan Zander was another offensive factor, providing 13 points, five assists, and also contributing a block and two steals on defense. 

Moriku Hakim added 10 points and three boards. 

Carly Kottsick grabbed a season-high four steals. 

UP NEXT
The Marauders will try to get back up the conference standings tomorrow at 3:30 pm against Wayne State College (9-6, 5-6 NSIC). The Wildcats will also be looking to get back in the win column after suffering a 70-57 loss to Minot State at home Friday night. Live stats and live video can both be found at goumary.com/coverage. 

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