Kayla Bridges Graduate Assistant Coach | Wayne State University Athletics Website
Kayla Bridges Graduate Assistant Coach | Wayne State University Athletics Website
The Wayne State University women's basketball team secured a 67-55 victory against Purdue Northwest on Saturday, marking their sixth consecutive win over the Pride. This win also extended the Warriors' current winning streak to three games.
In the first quarter, Purdue Northwest took an early lead with two consecutive three-pointers. However, Wayne State quickly responded with seven straight points, featuring contributions from Gabi Lutchka, Kate McArthur, and Shea Tripp. The quarter ended with Wayne State leading 22-20 after multiple ties and lead changes.
The second quarter saw Wayne State take control of the game. A jumper by Lutchka gave them a lead they would not relinquish. Additional points from Taylor Thompson, ZaMaria Polk, and McKenna Ferguson helped extend their advantage to ten points before halftime. Purdue Northwest managed to close the gap slightly, ending the half at 35-30 in favor of Wayne State.
In the third quarter, Wayne State maintained its lead, never allowing Purdue Northwest to come closer than six points. Ferguson's free throws in the final seconds increased their lead to 51-40 going into the last period.
Ferguson continued her strong performance in the fourth quarter with a three-point play that pushed Wayne State's lead to 14 points. Although Purdue Northwest reduced their deficit to five points midway through the quarter, timely scoring from McArthur and Tripp ensured Wayne State's victory.
Wayne State shot 47 percent from the field compared to Purdue Northwest's 43 percent. The Warriors also out-rebounded their opponents 34-24 and committed fewer turnovers.
Tripp recorded her fourth double-double of the season with 11 points and 11 rebounds. Ferguson led her team with 14 points while Lutchka added 12 points and four assists. McArthur contributed eight points along with five rebounds and steals.
For Purdue Northwest, Dash Shaw scored a game-high 22 points while Kennedy Jackson added 15 points and four assists.
Wayne State will host Grand Valley State at WSU Fieldhouse this Thursday as part of their upcoming schedule which includes four home games out of six.
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