2010-11 Women's basketball schedule/results

15-17 overall, 6-12 GPAC - View stats for the season

NOVEMBER
	Nov. 4	Tabor College	Hillsboro, Kan.	L 69-55
	Nov. 6	William Penn University	Oskaloosa, Iowa	W 70-68
	Nov. 9	Bethany College	Seward, Neb.	W 89-44
Cattle Classic:
	Nov. 12	Sterling College	Seward, Neb.	W 65-59
	Nov. 13	Kansas Wesleyan University	Seward, Neb	L 78-75
	Nov. 16	Bethel College	Newton, Kan.	W 66-62
	Nov. 20	Morningside College*	Seward, Neb	L 89-74
	Nov. 23	Midland Lutheran College*	Fremont, Neb	W 81-72
DECEMBER
	Dec. 1	Doane College*	Crete, Neb.	L 87-72
	Dec. 4	Dakota Wesleyan University*	Seward, Neb	W 95-63
	Dec. 8	Hastings College*	Seward, Neb	L 62-59
	Dec. 20	College of the Ozarks	Seward, Neb	W 73-66
Kansas Wesleyan University Classic:
	Dec. 31	Bethany College	Salina, Kan.	W 72-47
JANUARY
	Jan. 1	Kansas Wesleyan University	Salina, Kan.	L 76-62
	Jan. 3	Northwestern College* (rescheduled from Dec. 11)	Orange City, Iowa	L 82-72
	Jan. 5	York College	Seward, Neb	W 100-68
	Jan. 8	Dordt College*	Seward, Neb	L 71-61
	Jan. 12	Nebraska Wesleyan University*	Lincoln, Neb.	W 74-63
	Jan. 16	Dakota Wesleyan University*	Mitchell, S.D.	L 103-97 OT
	Jan. 19	Midland Lutheran College*	Seward, Neb.	W 63-62
	Jan. 22	Briar Cliff University*	Sioux City, Iowa	L 72-67
	Jan. 26	Doane College*	Seward, Neb	L 53-52
Concordia Invitational Tournament:
	Jan. 28	Concordia University-Chicago	Ann Arbor, Mich.	W 90-50
	Jan. 29	Concordia University-Ann Arbor	Ann Arbor, Mich.	L 73-55
FEBRUARY
	Feb. 2	Hastings College*	Hastings, Neb.	W 66-62
	Feb. 5	University of Sioux Falls*	Seward, Neb.	L 83-81
	Feb. 9	Briar Cliff University*	Seward, Neb.	L 84-66
	Feb. 12	Morningside College*	Sioux City, Iowa	L 79-63
	Feb. 16	Nebraska Wesleyan University*	Seward, Neb.	W 80-67
	Feb. 19	Mount Marty College*	Yankton, S.D.	L 70-69
GPAC Tournament:
	Feb. 22	Hastings College	Seward, Neb.	W 61-58
	Feb. 24	Northwestern College	Orange City, Iowa	L 72-66

*Indicates Great Plains Athletic Conference Games

All Home Games in BOLD

2010-11 Women's Basketball roster

Varsity

No.	Name	Pos.	Ht.	Yr.	Hometown	Previous School
10	Treva Nutter	G	5-8	So.	Thedford, Neb.	Thedford
12	Myhiah Dotzler	G	5-5	Fr.	Omaha, Neb.	Bellevue West
14	Melissa Ray	G	5-10	Fr.	Parker, Colo.	Chaparral
20	Lori Laboda	F	5-11	Fr.	Parker, Colo.	Chaparral
22	Kristen Conahan	G	5-5	Fr.	Omaha, Neb.	Millard North
24	Kathryn Ommen	G	5-9	Sr.	Jefferson City, Mo.	Jefferson City
30	Beth Kohmetscher	G	5-6	So.	Deweese, Neb.	Sandy Creek
32	Katie Rich	G	5-9	So.	Tilden, Neb.	Elkhorn Valley
34	Dawn Martin	G	5-9	So.	Rockford, Ill.	Rockford Lutheran
40	Kristin Miller	F	6-0	Sr.	Jefferson City, Mo.	Blair Oaks
42	Melissa Hansen	G	5-9	So.	Scotia, Neb.	North Loup-Scotia
44	Amber Kistler	G	5-9	Jr.	Minatare, Neb.	Western Nebraska CC
52	Britney Birtell	F	6-0	Fr.	Madison, Neb.	Lutheran High Northeast
54	Katie Herther	F	5-11	So.	Sioux Falls, SD	Lincoln

Junior Varsity

No.	Name	Pos.	Ht.	Yr.	Hometown	Previous School
10	Jessica Kaaz	G	5-5	Fr.	Washington, Mo.	Washington
12	Justina Strecker	F	5-8	Fr.	Falls City, Neb.	Falls City
14	Kendra Alberts	G	5-4	Fr.	St. Paul, Neb.	St. Paul
22	Melissa Hansen	G	5-9	So.	Scotia, Neb.	North Loup-Scotia
30	Dawn Martin	G	5-9	So.	Rockford, Ill.	Rockford Lutheran
32	Kasi Stoltz	G	5-6	Fr.	Elgin, Neb.	Elgin Pope John
34	Jenna Shoecraft	G	5-9	Fr..	Lincoln, Neb.	Lincoln North Star
40	Melissa Ray	G	5-10	Fr.	Parker, Colo.	Chaparral
42	Katelyn Koll	F	6-0	Fr.	Wilber, Neb.	Wilber-Clatonia
44	Lindee Jackson	F	5-10	Fr.	Fairmont, Neb.	McCool Junction
50	Katie Herther	F	5-11	So.	Sioux Falls, SD	Lincoln

2010-2011 Coaching staff

Head coach: Drew Olson

Assistant coach: Amy Harms

Assistant coach: Rich Olson

Concordia falls to Tabor College, 69-55

4 NOV 2010

Concordia University couldn’t overcome a slow start, and Tabor College picked up a 69-55 women’s basketball win over the Bulldogs on Thursday evening in the season opener for both teams.

Offense was tough to come by throughout the evening for the Bulldogs. Concordia struggled with turnovers and shot just 24% in the opening half. Tabor College took advantage of the Concordia miscues and shot 51% from the field to take a 44-27 lead into halftime.

Tabor led by as many as 23 points in the second half before Concordia trimmed the lead all the way down to just eight. The host Bluejays, however, withstood the rally and pulled away down the stretch for the double-digit victory.

Both teams struggled with turnovers. Tabor finished with 24, while Concordia finished with 21 turnovers in the game. Tabor shot 49% from the field, while the Bulldogs struggled at 25.9% from the floor in the loss.

Lacie Ward had a huge night for Tabor College in the win. Ward finished with a game-high 21 points and added 18 rebounds and five assists on the night. MacKenzie Dick added 18 points for the Jays.

Concordia was led by Treva Nutter’s 13 points. Nutter (Thedford, Neb.) added three rebounds and three assists on the night. Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) added nine points and added a team-high 11 rebounds for the Bulldogs in a losing effort.

Concordia travels to William Penn University on November 6.

Kistler's game-winner lifts Bulldogs to 70-68 win over William Penn

6 NOV 2010

Concordia’s Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) scored with two seconds remaining in the game to lift the Bulldogs to a 70-68 women’s basketball win over William Penn College on Saturday afternoon. Concordia improved to 1-1 on the young season with the win, while William Penn slipped to 1-2 with the loss.

Both teams struggled in the opening half of play. Concordia made just 10-of-29 field goal attempts, while the Lady Statesmen went just 10-of-37 (27 percent) from the floor in the first half. The Bulldogs led by as many as 12 (31-19) in the first half, but William Penn cut the deficit to four at 31-27 heading into halftime.

The game remained close throughout the second half. William Penn reclaimed the lead at 48-47 with just over eight minutes remaining in the contest. However, Concordia then went on a key 8-0 run to take back the lead at 55-48 with six minutes remaining.

The Lady Statesmen closed the gap once again, and two made free throws by Sarah Martin tied the score at 68-68 with 11 seconds remaining. Kistler came through with the game-winning layup for the Bulldogs with just seconds remaining, and Concordia held on for the exciting win.

Concordia shot an even 50 percent (15-of-30) from the field in the second half of play. For the game, the Bulldogs were 25-of-59 (42.4 percent) overall from the field, just 4-of-19 (21.1 percent) from deep and 16-of-22 (72.7 percent) from the foul line. Turnovers continued to be an issue, as the Bulldogs turned it over 31 times in the game. Concordia held a 50-43 rebounding advantage in the win.

Treva Nutter (Thedford, Neb.) scored a team-high 13 points for Concordia. The sophomore went 5-of-8 from the field on the day. Kistler added 12 points and nine boards, while Myhiah Dotzler (Omaha, Neb.) chipped in with 11. Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) grabbed a game-high 12 rebounds, and Lori Laboda (Parker, Colo.) hauled in 10 boards for the Bulldogs.

William Penn was 22-of-69 (31.9 percent) from the field in the loss. The Lady Statesmen were just 5-of-20 from three point land and 19-of-33 (57.6 percent) from the foul line. William Penn totaled 21 turnovers on the day.

Christa Subbert scored a game-high 19 points for William Penn. Sarah Martin added 12 points for the Lady Statesmen.

Concordia hosts Bethany College on November 9. Tip off is scheduled for 7 pm at the Health, Human Performance and Athletic Center.

Concordia routs Bethany College, 89-44

9 NOV 2010

Concordia University cruised to an 89-44 women’s basketball win over Bethany College on Tuesday evening in Seward. The Bulldogs won their second straight to move to 2-1 on the young season. Bethany College fell to 1-3 with the loss.

The Bulldogs jumped out to a big lead early in the game and didn’t look back. Concordia took a 44-19 lead into halftime, and the Bulldog defense caused all sorts of problems for Bethany throughout the game. The visiting Swedes turned it over 35 times on the night. Concordia finished with 21 steals in the game. Freshman Myhiah Dotzler (Omaha, Neb.) had a game-high six steals, and Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) added four steals for the Bulldogs.

“We needed a game like this for our confidence,” remarked Drew Olson, head coach of the Bulldogs. “I really liked our press tonight. Our girls have been playing a lot harder lately, and that was evident tonight.”

Offensively, Concordia was 32-of-64 from the field for an even 50 percent. The Bulldogs were 17-of-28 (60.7 percent) from the floor in the second half. Concordia was 9-of-21 (42.9 percent) from three point land but just 16-of-28 (57.1 percent) at the free throw line in the win. The Bulldogs held a 40-33 rebounding advantage.

Five players scored in double figures for Concordia in the lopsided win. Beth Kohmetscher (Deweese, Neb.) scored a game-high 13 points. The sophomore was 4-of-6 overall and 3-of-4 from deep for the Bulldogs. Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) added 12 points and a game-high nine boards, and Kistler also chipped in with 12 points. Lori Laboda (Parker, Colo.) and Katie Herther (Sioux Falls, S.D.) added 10 points apiece in a balanced Bulldog offensive attack.

“It was exciting to start with a good win like this at home,” said Beth Kohmetscher. “This was a good opportunity to get together as a team. It was our first time running our press, and we worked hard throughout the game.”

Bethany College went just 13-of-44 (29.5 percent) from the field. The Swedes connected on just 4-of-18 (22.2 percent) shots in the opening half of play as Concordia built the big lead. Bethany was also 4-of-18 from three point land and 14-of-21 (66.7 percent) from the foul line on the night.

Cathy Wade scored a team-best 11 points for the Swedes.

“We still have a lot to work on,” noted Olson. “We need to take better care of the ball. We also need to be able to score better and defend better in the half court. We’ll keep working, and we’re happy to pick up this win tonight.”

Concordia hosts the Cattle Classic Tournament this weekend. The Bulldog women take on Sterling College on Friday at 8 pm and Kansas Wesleyan on Saturday at 2 pm at the Health, Human Performance and Athletic Center.

Bulldogs pick up 65-59 win over Sterling College

12 NOV 2010

Concordia University used a big second half to secure a 65-59 women’s basketball win over Sterling College on Friday evening in Seward. The Bulldogs trailed by six at halftime but outscored Sterling College 36-24 in the second half. Concordia improved to 3-1 on the season with the win. Sterling dropped to 2-1 with the loss.

The Bulldogs jumped out to an early lead in the opening minutes of the first half, but Sterling College was able to close the gap. The Lady Warriors closed the first half on a 6-0 run to take a 35-29 lead into the halftime break.

Both teams struggled offensively in the opening 20 minutes. Sterling was just 12-of-34 (35.3 percent) from the floor, while Concordia was 9-of-27 (33.3 percent). The teams did combine to go 15-of-17 at the foul line in the opening half of play.

Concordia reclaimed the lead within the first two minutes of the second half. The Bulldogs led by as many as 11, but Sterling again had an answer. The Lady Warriors tied the game at 53-53 with 5:42 remaining in the contest, but Concordia took the lead for good on the next possession. Kat Ommen (Jefferson City, Mo.) scored in the paint to put the Bulldogs on top 55-53.

Following a made free throw by Sterling, Ommen delivered a clutch 3-pointer to push the Bulldog lead to four at 58-54. The Lady Warriors trimmed the lead back to two with a pair of made free throws, but Concordia’s Beth Kohmetscher (Deweese, Neb.) scored to make the score 60-56. Another pair of free throws pulled Sterling within two once again, but Treva Nutter hit a huge 3-pointer with just under a minute remaining to give Concordia a 63-58 lead. Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) added a layup late for the Bulldogs, and Concordia secured the 65-59 win.

“I can’t say enough about how our girls are coming together as a team,” commented Drew Olson, head coach of the Bulldogs. “This is a good team we played tonight. We found ways to rebound after giving up eight offensive boards in the first half, and our team just played together.”

Concordia finished 22-of-56 (39.3 percent) from the field overall. The Bulldogs were 6-of-18 (33.3 percent) from deep and 15-of-19 (78.9 percent) from the foul line. The Bulldogs also held a slim 40-38 rebounding advantage on the night.

Several players scored in double figures in the Concordia win. Ommen scored 11 points to go along with seven rebounds and a game-high five assists, while Lori Laboda (Parker, Colo.) also scored 11. Kistler and Treva Nutter (Thedford, Neb.) poured in 10 points apiece. Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) scored nine points and grabbed a game-high nine rebounds for the Bulldogs.

The Concordia defense was solid once again, as Sterling connected on just 18-of-57 shots on the night for 31.6 percent. The Lady Warriors were 4-of-15 (26.7 percent) from three point land and 19-of-24 (79.2 percent) at the foul line. Megan Patrick had 24 points for Sterling in the loss.

Nine players scored for Concordia in the win, a luxury Coach Olson is excited about. “Everyone comes in, plays hard and does their job,” remarked Olson. “Tonight, we were able to go on a run with our bench, and that was huge.”

Concordia takes on Kansas Wesleyan on Saturday. Tip is scheduled for 2 pm at the Health, Human Performance and Athletic Center.

Concordia rally not enough in 78-75 loss to Kansas Wesleyan

13 NOV 2010

Kansas Wesleyan defeated Concordia by the score of 78-75 on Saturday afternoon in Seward. The Bulldogs fought back from a 15-point halftime deficit, but the rally fell short. KWU improved to 4-0 on the season with the win. Concordia slipped to 3-2 on the year with the loss.

In the first half, the Coyotes used an 8-0 run to take a 22-11 lead with just over 10 minutes remaining in the half. Kansas Wesleyan led by as many as 16 in the first half and settled for a 44-29 halftime lead.

Concordia was just 10-of-31 (32.3 percent) from the field overall and 5-of-17 (29.4 percent) from three point land in the opening half. Turnovers were also a problem in the first half, as Concordia turned it over 11 times as the Coyotes built their lead.

The Bulldogs chipped away at the KWU lead early and often in the second half, but the Coyotes continued to have answers. With less than four minutes remaining in the game, Concordia made a final push to get back in the game. Trailing 76-67, the Bulldogs used an 8-0 run to pull within a point at 76-75.

Concordia had chances to tie or take the lead in the final minute. The Bulldogs missed a jumper on one possession and followed that with a turnover on the next possession. KWU added two free throws, and the Bulldogs turned the ball over before they had a chance to try for the tie. The Coyotes held on for the 78-75 victory.

Following a tough first half, Concordia was 14-of-28 (50 percent) from the field in the second half. The Bulldogs outscored the Coyotes 46-34 in the final 20 minutes, but the rally fell just short. Concordia was 20-of-25 (80 percent) at the foul line but just 7-of-23 (30.4 percent) from deep. The Bulldogs finished with 21 turnovers in the game.

Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) had a big game to lead Concordia in a losing effort. Kistler scored 26 points and added 13 rebounds. She was 6-of-13 from the field and 13-of-15 at the foul line. Treva Nutter (Thedford, Neb.) delivered 14 points, and Kat Ommen (Jefferson City, Mo.) added 10 for the Bulldogs.

Kansas Wesleyan finished 20-of-58 (34.5 percent) from the field. The Coyotes were just 10-of-33 from long range for 30.3 percent. However, KWU had a strong night at the foul line. The Coyotes finished 28-of-32 (87.5 percent) at the charity stripe. The KWU defense totaled 13 steals in the game.

LaCole Wilkinson had a game-high 27 points and also added five assists to lead Kansas Wesleyan. Wilkinson was 6-of-12 from the field and 12-of-14 at the foul line. Montric Santee added 14 points, and Shelby Babcock added 11 for the Coyotes.

In the final game of the tournament on the women’s side, Sterling College picked up a 79-63 win over Doane College. Following the Sterling win, the Cattle Classic All-Tournament Team was announced. Brittany Lurz (Doane College), LaCole Wilkinson (Kansas Wesleyan), Britany Gasper (Sterling College), Megan Patrick (Sterling College) and Amber Kistler (Concordia University) were selected to the team.

Bulldogs hang on for 66-62 win over Bethel College

16 NOV 2010

Concordia University held on for a 66-62 women’s basketball win over Bethel College on Tuesday evening. Three players scored in double figures to lead the Bulldogs to the victory. Concordia improved to 4-2 on the year with the win.

The Bulldogs were 23-of-64 (35.9 percent) from the field in the win. Concordia was 9-of-22 (40.9 percent) from deep and 11-of-18 (61.1 percent) at the charity stripe on the night. Kat Ommen (Jefferson City, Mo.) had a big double-double of 12 points and 18 rebounds to lead the way. Ommen struggled from the field (4-of-13), but was a force rebounding. She also added four steals. Lori Laboda (Parker, Colo.) also had a double-double for the Bulldogs with 15 points and 11 rebounds. Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) added 15 points off the bench on a perfect 5-of-5 from long distance.

Angela Wood scored a game-high 17 points for Bethel College. Rachael Bachman added 13, and Jessica Muckenthaler delivered 12 for the host Threshers in a losing effort.

“Tonight was definitely a sloppy performance,” said Drew Olson, head coach of the Bulldogs. “Kristen got it going from deep which was good to see, but it wasn’t a great performance by our team. We need to play a lot harder and smarter as we get set to enter GPAC play.”

Concordia hosts Morningside College on Saturday. Tip is scheduled for 2 pm at the Health, Human Performance and Athletic Center.

Worden and Trask lead Morningside to 89-74 win over Concordia

20 NOV 2010

Morningside College used hot shooting from the foul line and from three point land to pull away for an 89-74 women’s basketball win over Concordia on Saturday afternoon in Seward. The Mustangs drained 15 3-pointers and were a perfect 18-of-18 at the foul line in the win. Morningside improved to 6-0 overall and 1-0 in conference play with the victory. Concordia slipped to 4-3 overall and 0-1 in GPAC play with the loss.

Concordia took a 43-39 lead into the halftime break. The Bulldogs were 12-of-13 at the foul line, and Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) had a huge first half with 17 points. The Mustangs stayed in the game behind 22 first-half points from Tanaeya Worden. Worden hit four 3-pointers and was 9-of-12 from the field in the opening half.

Morningside connected on eight 3-pointers in the second half. The Mustangs were also a perfect 12-of-12 at the charity stripe as they pulled away for the win. Concordia cooled off offensively in the final half, hitting just 11-of-32 shots for 34.4 percent.

For the game, the Mustangs were 28-of-61 (45.9 percent) from the field, 15-of-30 (50 percent) from deep and 18-of-18 at the foul line. The Mustangs also held a slim 36-34 rebounding advantage.

Worden finished with game-highs of 27 points and seven assists for Morningside in the win. Chelsi Trask added 26 points and was a perfect 14-of-14 at the foul line for the Mustangs.

Concordia was 24-of-59 (40.7 percent) from the field, 10-of-27 (37 percent) from long range and 16-of-20 (80 percent) at the foul line on the day. Kistler finished with 26 points, five rebounds and three steals for the Bulldogs. Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.), Kristin Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) and Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) all had 11 points for the Bulldogs.

Concordia travels to Midland University on November 23.

Concordia holds off Midland University, 81-72

23 NOV 2010

Concordia University picked up its first conference win of the season with an 81-72 win over Midland University on Tuesday evening in Fremont. The Bulldogs improved to 5-3 overall and 1-1 in GPAC play with the victory. Midland dropped to 4-4 overall and 0-1 in GPAC play with the loss.

The Bulldogs led for the majority of the first half. Kat Ommen (Jefferson City, Mo.) and Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) delivered 10 and eight points off the bench, respectively, in the first half for Concordia. The Bulldogs took a 42-37 lead into halftime.

Concordia extended its lead in the second half and looked to have firm control of the game. The Bulldogs led by 17 at 62-45 with just over 10 minutes remaining in the contest, but Midland University rallied down the stretch. The host Warriors cut the lead all the way down to four (70-66) with 3:43 left in regulation. However, Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) hit a pair of free throws and a jumper to push the Bulldog lead back to eight at 74-66 with just over a minute left to play. The Bulldogs used solid free throw shooting down the stretch to secure the 81-72 win.

For the game, Concordia was 24-of-61 (39.3 percent) from the field. The Bulldogs connected on 9-of-23 (39.1 percent) shots from long distance and were 24-of-30 (80 percent) from the foul line. Concordia finished with 20 turnovers on the game. The Bulldog defense, however, totaled 18 steals on the night.

Ommen paced the Bulldogs offensively with 18 points. The senior was 4-of-8 from the field and 8-of-10 at the charity stripe. Conahan added 12 points, three assists and six steals. Rich poured in 15 points to go along with a team-high six rebounds, and Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) delivered 11 points for the Bulldogs.

Midland University was 26-of-54 (48.1 percent) from the field on the night. The Warriors were just 7-of-22 (31.8 percent) from deep and 13-of-19 (68.4 percent) at the foul line. Midland managed to hold a commanding 43-31 rebounding advantage. Turnovers were costly for Midland, as the Warriors finished with 35 in the loss.

Megan Torkelson led three players in double figures for the Warriors with 16 points. Jami Thramer added a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Adrina LaVern scored 13 points for Midland University.

Concordia travels to Doane College on December 1.

Outside shooting lifts Doane College to 87-72 win over Concordia

1 DEC 2010

Doane College hit 13 3-pointers and upset Concordia 87-72 on Wednesday evening in Crete. The Tigers improved to 2-7 overall and 1-1 in GPAC play with the victory. Concordia slipped to 5-4 overall and 1-2 in GPAC play with the loss.

The host Tigers jumped out to a big lead in the first half. Doane hit several 3-pointers and took advantage of multiple Concordia turnovers to start the game. The Tigers led by as many as 21 in the opening 20 minutes. Concordia used a 7-0 run to pull within 14 at 38-24, but Doane quickly built the lead back to 19. The Bulldogs closed the first half on a 5-0 run, and Doane settled for a 49-35 halftime advantage.

Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) scored 14 points, and Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) added 13 for the Bulldogs in the first half. The Bulldogs shot 47 percent from the floor but did not connect on any 3-point field goals in the opening half. Doane went 53 percent from the field and hit seven 3-pointers in the first 20 minutes.

Doane again extended the lead early in the second half. The Tigers hit four more 3-pointers early in the half, and Doane reclaimed a 20-point lead at 58-38. Concordia would get no closer than 14 the rest of the way, and the Tigers pulled away for the win.

Rich and Miller each finished with 20 points on the night to lead Concordia offensively. Rich was 5-of-11 from the field and 10-of-14 at the foul line. Miller was 7-of-12 from the field and 6-of-8 at the foul line. Miller also added a game-high nine rebounds. Treva Nutter (Thedford, Neb.) also reached double figures with 14 points for the Bulldogs.

Cheryl Braithwait had a huge night for Doane in the win. Braithwait scored a game-high 25 points and was 9-of-13 from the field in the game. She hit 4-of-6 from long range and was 3-of-4 at the foul line. Kalen Carlson and Kristine Ortmeier added 13 and 12 points, respectively, for the Tigers in the win.

Concordia continues GPAC play on Saturday with a home contest against Dakota Wesleyan. Tip is scheduled for 2 pm at the Health, Human Performance and Athletic Center.

Concordia runs past Dakota Wesleyan, 95-63

4 DEC 2010

Concordia jumped out to a 49-24 halftime lead and cruised to a 95-63 women’s basketball win over Dakota Wesleyan on Saturday afternoon in Seward. The Bulldogs moved to 6-4 overall and 2-2 in GPAC play with the victory. Dakota Wesleyan dropped to 1-9 on the season. The Tigers remained winless in GPAC play at 0-4.

Concordia totaled 75 shots in the game compared to just 41 for Dakota Wesleyan. The Bulldogs had 19 steals and forced 28 DWU turnovers in the game. Concordia also held a 41-34 rebounding advantage. Offensively, Concordia had 22 assists on their 33 made baskets.

For the game, Concordia was 33-of-75 (44 percent) from the field. The Bulldogs were 11-of-24 (45.8 percent) from three point land and 18-of-24 (75 percent) at the foul line.

Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) poured in a game-high 21 points for the Bulldogs. Kistler was 7-of-14 from the floor, 3-of-5 from long range and 4-of-5 at the charity stripe. Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) added 14 points, while Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) added 13 off the bench. Conahan was 5-of-7 from the field and 3-of-4 from deep. Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) also reached double figures with 10 points. Miller also grabbed a team-best seven rebounds in the Concordia win.

“It was important to get this win to build some momentum,” noted Concordia junior Amber Kistler. “We’ve played a little sloppy lately, so we needed to focus in today.”

Dakota Wesleyan was just 16-of-41 (39 percent) from the field. The Tigers were 7-of-18 (38.9 percent) from distance and 24-of-35 (68.6 percent) at the foul line.

Elizabeth Lamb scored a team-best 16 points for DWU. Brittany Pritchard and Amanda Hart added 11 apiece for the Tigers in a losing effort.

The GPAC schedule won’t get easier for the Bulldogs, who host perennial power Hastings College on Wednesday evening. “We still need to work on putting together 40 minutes of good basketball,” noted Kistler. “We’ve had some good runs in different games, but playing at that level consistently would take our team to another level.”

Tip is scheduled for 6 pm Wednesday evening at the Health, Human Performance and Athletic Center.

Hastings College hangs on for 62-59 win over Concordia

8 DEC 2010

Hastings College surprised Concordia with a 62-59 win over the Bulldogs on Wednesday evening in Seward. It was the first conference win for the Broncos, now 6-7 overall and 1-4 in GPAC play. Concordia dropped to 6-5 overall and 2-3 in GPAC play with the loss.

The visiting Broncos led for the entire first half. Hastings led by as many as 12, and Concordia struggled out of the gate. The Bulldogs connected on just 10-of-33 shots from the field in the opening 20 minutes, and Hastings took a 36-28 lead into halftime.

The second half remained close throughout. Concordia finally pulled even (41-41) with just under 12 minutes remaining, and the Bulldogs took their first lead of the game (49-48) on a jumper by Treva Nutter (Thedford, Neb.) with less than eight minutes remaining in regulation. However, back-to-back baskets by Alicia Statler and Brittney Wong reclaimed the lead for Hastings at 52-49. Concordia wouldn’t lead again.

Concordia pulled within one at 52-51 with just under four minutes left in the contest. The play of the game was made by Courtney Spawn of Hastings College. Hastings had just three seconds remaining on the shot clock, and Spawn connected on a deep 3-pointer as the shot clock expired to push the Bronco lead to four at 55-51.

The Bulldogs didn’t quit, and a 3-pointer by Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) cut the Hastings lead to one at 55-54 with just under three minutes remaining. However, Sophia McDermott responded with a 3-pointer of her own to push the lead back to four at 58-54. A pair of made free throws by Spawn increased the Hastings lead to six with just over a minute to play.

A 3-pointer by Nutter pulled the Bulldogs back within three at 60-57. Following a Hastings turnover, Concordia’s Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) hit a pair of free throws to pull Concordia within one at 60-59.

McDermott hit two free throws to increase the Hastings lead back to three, and Concordia turned the ball over on the next possession. The Bulldogs were forced to foul. Spawn missed the foul shot, leaving just four seconds on the clock for Concordia. The Bulldogs were unable to get a shot off, and Hastings held on for the 62-59 victory.

Hastings picked up the victory despite 27 turnovers in the game. The Broncos held a commanding 45-30 rebounding advantage and blocked nine shots on the night. Hastings was 22-of-54 (40.7 percent) from the field overall. The Broncos were 7-of-15 (46.7 percent) from long range and 11-of-13 (84.6 percent) from the foul line.

McDermott had a game-high 17 points for Hastings. Statler added 15 points, 16 rebounds and five blocks. Spawn chipped in with 14 points and 11 rebounds for the Broncos.

Concordia was just 18-of-56 (32.1 percent) from the field in the loss. The Bulldogs were 8-of-19 (42.1 percent) from deep and 15-of-20 (75 percent) at the charity stripe.

Kistler had 13 points to lead three players in double figures for the Bulldogs. Kristen Conahan added 12 points off the bench, and Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) had 10 for Concordia.

The Bulldogs travel to Northwestern College on Saturday.

Balanced scoring leads Concordia to 73-66 win over No. 8 College of the Ozarks

20 DEC 2010

Concordia picked up a big 73-66 women’s basketball win over College of the Ozarks on Monday evening in Seward. The Bulldogs improved to 7-5 on the year with the win. The visiting Bobcats, ranked No. 8 in the latest NAIA Top 25 Poll, dropped to 9-4 on the year with the loss.

Concordia led from start to finish. The Bulldogs got off to a great start on both ends of the floor and quickly built a double-digit lead. Concordia led by as many as 16 on multiple occasions in the opening 20 minutes and settled for a 46-33 halftime lead.

The Bulldogs were cold from the field to open the second half. College of Ozarks took advantage, and an 11-0 run pulled the Bobcats within four at 48-44 with over 12 minutes remaining in regulation.

Four consecutive made free throws by Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) pushed the Concordia lead back to 10 (58-48) with less than nine minutes left in regulation. The Bobcats pulled within five on two occasions down the stretch, but key buckets and solid free throw shooting allowed Concordia to secure the 73-66 win.

Concordia finished 24-of-64 (37.5 percent) from the field in the win. The Bulldogs were 7-of-20 (35 percent) from long range and a solid 18-of-21 (85.7 percent) from the charity stripe. The Bulldogs held a 46-39 rebounding advantage in the contest.

Concordia’s balanced scoring and depth proved to be too much for the Bobcats. Three players scored in double figures, and two more players added nine points for the Bulldogs. Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) had a big double-double of 15 points and 11 rebounds to lead the way. Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) and Myhiah Dotzler (Omaha, Neb.) poured in 13 points apiece. Dotzler scored 10 of her points in the first half. Kistler and Lori Laboda (Parker, Colo.) each had nine.

The visiting Bobcats were just 22-of-59 (37.3 percent) from the field, 11-of-31 (35.5 percent) from deep and 11-of-23 (47.8 percent) at the foul line in the loss. The Bobcats did total 11 steals and seven blocks defensively.

Maranda Vaught scored a game-high 19 points for College of the Ozarks. Vaught also added five assists, five steals and four rebounds. Tara LaRue added 14 points and 10 boards, while Megan Jewell chipped in with 12 points and four assists for the Bobcats.

Concordia will take part in the Kansas Wesleyan Tournament from December 31-January 1.

Olson picks up 100th career coaching win in Concordia's 72-47 victory over Bethany College

31 DEC 2010

Concordia University earned an easy 72-47 women’s basketball win over Bethany College on Friday evening in the Kansas Wesleyan Basketball Classic. It was the 100th career coaching win for Drew Olson. The Bulldogs improved to 8-5 on the season, while Bethany slipped to 2-11.

Concordia led by just nine (33-24) at the half, but the Bulldogs poured it on in the second half. Concordia led by as many as 29 (62-33) and pulled away for the convincing win. Concordia forced 22 turnovers and finished with 25 points off of those turnovers. Concordia held Bethany to 14-of-51 (27.5 percent) shooting in the game. The Bulldogs also held a commanding 18-8 advantage in points in the paint and had a 51-36 rebounding advantage over the Swedes.

Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) poured in a game-high 20 points for the Bulldogs. Kistler was 4-of-10 from the field (3-of-4 from deep) and 9-of-10 at the foul line. Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) also reached double figures with 11 points off the bench. Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) scored eight points and grabbed a game-high nine rebounds for Concordia in the win.

Emily Dwerlkotte scored 11 points for Bethany College.

Concordia will battle #6 Kansas Wesleyan on Saturday at 4 pm to conclude play in the holiday tournament.

Kansas Wesleyan uses strong second half to top Concordia, 76-62

1 JAN 2011

Kansas Wesleyan University, ranked No. 6 in the latest NAIA Top 25 Poll, used a strong second half to rally for a 76-62 women’s basketball win over Concordia on Saturday. The win kept Kansas Wesleyan undefeated on the season at 15-0. Concordia dropped to 8-6 on the year with the loss.

The host Coyotes jumped on the Bulldogs early in the first half and built a lead as large as 14 (22-8) with just over 11 minutes remaining in the half. Concordia rallied, however, and a Lori Laboda (Parker, Colo.) basket with 31 seconds left in the half gave the Bulldogs a 36-35 halftime advantage.

KWU reclaimed the lead at 37-36 on the first possession of the second half. Concordia took a 43-42 lead on a basket by Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.), but that would be the last lead of the game for the Bulldogs. The Coyotes slowly pulled away and led by double figures for the final five minutes of the contest. Concordia struggled from the field in the second half, hitting just 9-of-31 shots for 29 percent.

Much like the first meeting between the teams earlier this season, turnovers proved costly for Concordia in the loss. The Bulldogs finished with 26 turnovers, and the Coyotes converted those turnovers into 27 points. KWU also held a 26-16 advantage in points in the paint.

For the game, Kansas Wesleyan was 27-of-57 from the field for 47.4 percent. The Coyotes were 6-of-22 (27.3 percent) from long range and 16-of-28 (57.1 percent) from the foul line.

Five players scored in double figures for KWU in the win. Stephanie Frost and LaCole Wilkinson each scored 13. Katie Novack scored 12 off the bench, and Shelby Babcock added 11. Danielle Eknow had 10 points and eight boards, while Montric Santee had eight points and a game-high six assists for the Coyotes.

Concordia was just 21-of-58 from the field for 36.2 percent. The Bulldogs were 9-of-25 (36 percent) in 3-pointers and 11-of-18 (61.1 percent) from the charity stripe.

Conahan scored 13 points on 5-of-13 shooting to lead the way for Concordia. Myhiah Dotzler (Omaha, Neb.) added 11 points, while Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) had a double-double of 11 points and a career-high 16 rebounds for the Bulldogs.

Concordia travels to Northwestern College on January 3. Tip is scheduled for 6 pm in Orange City, Iowa. The Red Raiders are 14-1 overall and a perfect 5-0 in GPAC play so far this season. Concordia is currently 2-3 in conference play.

Northwestern survives upset bid with 82-72 win over Concordia

3 JAN 2011

Top-ranked Northwestern College held on for an 82-72 women’s basketball win over Concordia on Monday evening. The Red Raiders moved to 15-1 overall and 6-0 in conference play with the win. The Bulldogs dropped to 8-7 overall and 2-4 in conference play with the loss.

Northwestern jumped out to a quick 6-2 lead following multiple turnovers by Concordia to start the game. The Bulldogs settled in, however, and a 15-4 run gave Concordia a 17-10 lead with less than 12 minutes remaining in the half.

The host Red Raiders responded with a 14-0 run later in the first half to grab a 28-21 advantage. A bucket by Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) stopped the Northwestern run, and the Bulldogs kept it close throughout the rest of the half. Northwestern settled for a 36-33 halftime advantage. Points off turnovers were the difference, as the Red Raiders totaled 17 points off Bulldog turnovers in the first 20 minutes.

Northwestern maintained a slim lead for the first several minutes of the second half. A 3-pointer by Conahan pulled the Bulldogs within one at 45-44, and a lay up by Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) gave Concordia a 46-45 lead with just over 14 minutes remaining in the contest.

The Raiders quickly responded, using a 15-4 run to take a 60-50 lead. Concordia wouldn’t go away, however, and a Conahan’s fourth 3-pointer of the half tied the game at 64-64. Northwestern pulled away with a 7-0 run to take a 71-64 lead with just over three minutes remaining. Concordia got no closer than five the rest of the way.

Each team totaled 32 points in the paint. Northwestern finished with 23 points off turnovers compared to just 12 for Concordia. The Bulldog bench held a 28-16 scoring advantage in the contest. Northwestern held a slim 36-35 rebounding advantage.

For the game, Northwestern was 28-of-59 from the field for 47.5 percent. The Raiders were 7-of-19 (36.8 percent) from deep and 19-of-26 (73.1 percent) from the foul line in the win. Becca Hurley scored a game-high 27 points for the Raiders. Hurley was 9-of-16 from the field, 3-of-7 from long range and 6-of-7 at the charity stripe. She also grabbed seven rebounds and dished out seven assists. Kendra De Jong added a double-double of 15 points and 10 rebounds for Northwestern College.

Concordia was 26-of-60 (43.3 percent) from the field, including just 5-of-17 from deep. The Bulldogs were 15-of-21 from the foul line for 71.4 percent. Conahan led four players in double figures with 16 points. The freshman was 6-of-11 from the field and 4-of-7 from behind the three point line. Kat Ommen (Jefferson City, Mo.) had a double-double of 12 points and 11 rebounds, while Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) and Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) also added 12 points apiece for the Bulldogs.

Concordia hosts York College on Wednesday evening. Tip is scheduled for 6 p.m. at the Health, Human Performance and Athletic Center. No admission will be charged.

Rich leads offense as Concordia routs York College

5 JAN 2011

Concordia University cruised to a 100-68 women’s basketball win over York College on Wednesday evening in Seward. The Bulldogs led by 19 at the half and continued to pour it on in the second half to pick up the convincing victory. Concordia improved to 9-7 on the year with the win, while York slipped to 4-11 with the loss.

Concordia got off to a nice start on both ends of the floor in the opening half. The Bulldogs were 17-of-32 (53.1 percent) from the field and 6-of-7 (85.7 percent) at the foul line. Defensively, Concordia limited the visiting Panthers to 11-of-34 (32.4 percent) shooting in the opening 20 minutes. The Bulldogs took a 46-27 lead into halftime.

“We were ready to go tonight, and we wanted to get off to a fast start,” said Bulldog sophomore Katie Rich. Our defense and rebounding helped our offense, and we started the game pretty well tonight.”

The Bulldogs continued to put on an offensive show in the second half, scoring 54 points. Concordia was 16-of-37 (43.2 percent) from the field and 18-of-21 (85.7 percent) from the foul line in the second half.

For the game, Concordia was 33-of-69 (47.8 percent) from the field, 10-of-28 (35.7 percent) from deep and 24-of-28 (85.7 percent) from the charity stripe. The Bulldogs held a 44-40 rebounding advantage and forced 22 York College turnovers in the game.

Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) led four players in double figures with 19 points. Rich was perfect on the evening, going 6-of-6 from the field and 6-of-6 at the foul line. Treva Nutter (Thedford, Neb.) added 15 points, three assists and two steals. Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) delivered 13 points and six boards, while Kat Ommen (Jefferson City, Mo.) poured in 12 off the bench.

York College finished 24-of-63 (38.1 percent) from the field in the loss. The Panthers were just 3-of-17 (17.6 percent) from long range and 17-of-26 (65.4 percent) at the foul line. Lorena Medeiros had 16 points for the Panthers.

Concordia returns to GPAC play this Saturday with a home contest against Dordt College. Tip is scheduled for 5 p.m. at the Health, Human Performance and Athletic Center. With their 9-7 overall record (2-4 in GPAC play), the Bulldogs will look to build some momentum following a very difficult schedule over the past few weeks. Concordia has played three top-10 teams in the past four games. Dordt College will bring a 10-5 overall record with a 1-4 mark in conference play into Saturday’s matchup.

“We just need to stay confident, communicate and play together,” remarked Rich. “We’re a young team. If we do those things, we have a chance to put things together here in January.”

Dordt College upends Concordia, 71-61

8 JAN 2011

Dordt College picked up a 71-61 women’s basketball win over Concordia on Saturday evening in Seward. The Defenders moved to 11-5 overall and 2-4 in conference play with the victory. Concordia dropped to 9-8 overall and 2-5 in conference play.

Concordia took advantage of cold shooting by Dordt College to open the game. The Bulldogs built a 10-2 lead with just over 13 minutes remaining in the first half. However, a 17-6 run over the next few minutes gave Dordt a 19-16 lead with nine minutes in the opening half. Concordia rallied to reclaim a two point lead later in the half. Dordt again had an answer and took a 34-28 lead with just over a minute left in the half. A 3-pointer by Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) pulled Concordia within three (34-31) heading into halftime.

The Bulldogs struggled mightily from the field in the second half, and Dordt College took full advantage. The Defenders led for the entire second half and built their first double-digit lead (45-34) with just over 14 minutes in regulation. Concordia got no closer than nine the rest of the way, and Dordt built a lead as big as 16 on multiple occasions.

For the evening, Dordt was 24-of-53 (45.3 percent) from the field. The Defenders were 7-of-22 (31.8 percent) from long range and 16-of-19 (84.2 percent) at the charity stripe. Dordt held a 39-36 rebounding advantage and totaled 17 assists on their 24 made field goals.

Brianna Spronk and Julia DeKoekkoek each scored 17 for the Defenders. Jaimie Kok added 11 points off the bench, and Amber Soodsma had 10 points, eight assists and six rebounds for Dordt in the victory.

Concordia was just 19-of-61 (31.1 percent) from the field for the game. The Bulldogs were just 5-of-22 (22.7 percent) from deep and 18-of-21 (85.7 percent) at the foul line. Concordia had 16 turnovers but did come up with 10 steals in the contest.

Conahan scored 13 to lead Concordia offensively. Treva Nutter (Thedford, Neb.) and Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) added nine apiece.

Concordia travels to Nebraska Wesleyan on January 12. Tip is scheduled for 6 p.m. in Lincoln.

Concordia uses balanced scoring to top Nebraska Wesleyan, 74-63

12 JAN 2011

Concordia University secured a 74-63 women’s basketball win over Nebraska Wesleyan on Wednesday evening in Lincoln. Four players scored in double figures for the Bulldogs in the win.

Besides a 2-2 tie in the opening minutes, Concordia led from start to finish. The Bulldogs connected on 17-of-33 shots in the opening half for 51.5 percent. Concordia led by as many as 13 (37-24) in the opening 20 minutes and took a 39-31 lead into halftime.

The Bulldogs maintained a double digit lead for much of the second half. The host Prairie Wolves got as close as six on a few occasions, but Concordia continued to have answers down the stretch. The Bulldogs again built a lead as big as 13 (69-56) in the closing minutes and settled for the 74-63 win.

Concordia was 29-of-70 (41.4 percent) from the field for the game. The Bulldogs were 6-of-19 (31.6 percent) from three point land and 10-of-18 (55.6 percent) at the foul line. Concordia held a slim 41-37 rebounding advantage. Concordia finished with 18 assists on 29 made field goals and totaled just seven turnovers in the contest.

Nebraska Wesleyan, now 5-9 overall and 1-6 in the GPAC, was 24-of-55 (43.6 percent) from the field in the loss. The Prairie Wolves were 4-of-13 (30.8 percent) from deep and 11-of-16 (68.8 percent) at the foul line. NWU committed 16 turnovers on the night.

Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) poured in a team-high 16 points off the bench to lead a balanced Concordia offensive attack. Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) added 14 points and six rebounds, and Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) scored 12 to go along with six boards. Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) also reached double figures with 11 points for Concordia, now 10-8 overall and 3-5 in GPAC play this season.

Sadie Struebing scored a game-high 24 points and pulled down 13 rebounds to lead the way for Nebraska Wesleyan. Mallory Shanahan and Shea Rasmussen added 12 and 10 points, respectively, for the Prairie Wolves.

Concordia travels to Dakota Wesleyan on January 16.

Dakota Wesleyan outlasts Concordia in overtime, 103-97

16 JAN 2011

Dakota Wesleyan outscored Concordia 17-11 in overtime and picked up a 103-97 women’s basketball win on Sunday afternoon in Mitchell. The host Tigers improved to 6-14 overall and 2-8 in conference play with the win. Concordia dropped to 10-9 overall and 3-6 in the GPAC with the loss.

DWU used hot shooting in the opening half to build a big lead. The Tigers were 16-of-26 (61.5 percent) overall from the field and 7-of-9 (77.8 percent) from long range in the opening 20 minutes. The Tigers also went a perfect 6-of-6 at the foul line. Concordia, on the other hand, struggled to find the range offensively in the first half. The Bulldogs were 12-of-34 (35.3 percent) and 3-of-11 (27.3 percent) from deep. Dakota Wesleyan led by as many as 21 in the first half and took a 45-33 lead into halftime.

A quick 10-3 run by Concordia to open the second half trimmed the Tiger lead to just five at 48-43. DWU reclaimed a double-digit lead, but Concordia continued to chip away. Dakota Wesleyan led by four (86-82) with less than a minute remaining in regulation. Treva Nutter (Thedford, Neb.) scored to cut the lead to two at 86-84 with 40 seconds remaining. Following a miss by DWU, Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) scored with just three seconds remaining to tie the score and send the game to overtime.

Concordia was 20-of-37 (54.1 percent) from the field in the second half. The Bulldogs also made 8-of-15 (53.3 percent) from long range as they got back into the game. Dakota Wesleyan also continued its solid shooting in the second half, hitting 14-of-27 shots for 51.9 percent.

Dakota Wesleyan controlled the overtime period to pick up the win. The Tigers opened overtime with a 6-0 run and led by as many as nine (97-88) in the extra frame. Solid free throw shooting down the stretch preserved the 103-97 win for the Tigers.

For the game, DWU was 33-of-60 (55 percent) from the field and 14-of-26 (53.8 percent) from deep. The Tigers were 23-of-35 at the foul line for 65.7 percent. The Tigers totaled 23 assists on their 33 made field goals and outrebounded Concordia 44-40. DWU won the game despite 29 turnovers on the day.

Kim Johnson poured in 22 points off the bench to lead five players in double figures for DWU. Johnson was 8-of-9 from the field, 2-of-2 on 3-pointers and 4-of-4 at the foul line. Liz Lamb added 20 points and four assists, while Amanda Hart scored 18. Brittany Hills delivered 15 points and dished out seven assists, and Brittany Pritchard also reached double figures with 10 points.

Concordia was 37-of-81 (45.7 percent) from the field in the loss. The Bulldogs were 12-of-29 (41.4 percent) on 3-pointers and just 11-of-20 (55 percent) from the foul line. Concordia had 19 assists on 37 made field goals. Turnovers were also costly for the Bulldogs, who totaled 20 in the loss.

Nutter finished with a team-high 20 points on 9-of-13 shooting to lead seven players in double figures for Concordia. Nutter also handed out seven assists. Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) poured in 15 points, while Myhiah Dotzler (Omaha, Neb.), Kistler and Lori Laboda (Parker, Colo.) all scored 12. Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) and Kat Ommen (Jefferson City, Mo.) each scored 11 off the bench for the Bulldogs.

Concordia hosts Midland University on January 19. Tip is scheduled for 6 p.m. at the Health, Human Performance and Athletic Center.

Concordia escapes with 63-62 win over Midland University

19 JAN 2011

Concordia University escaped with a 63-62 women’s basketball win over Midland University on Wednesday evening in Seward. Amber Kistler’s free throw in the closing seconds proved to be the difference, as Concordia improved to 11-9 overall and 4-6 in conference play with the win. Midland University dropped to 11-11 overall and 3-7 in conference play with the loss.

Both teams struggled offensively for much of the first half. Concordia led by five (14-9) with just over 11 minutes remaining, but Midland used an 11-0 run to grab a 20-14 lead with less than seven minutes remaining in the half. Concordia scored the final seven points of the half to take a 34-27 lead into halftime.

Concordia led by as many as 14 in the second half. The Bulldogs led by nine (60-51) with just over three minutes remaining in the contest, but the visiting Warriors rallied late. A 6-0 run cut the Bulldog lead to three at 60-57. Following two made free throws by Kistler, Midland’s Jami Thramer scored to pull the Warriors back within three at 62-59.

Concordia turned the ball over with less than a minute remaining in regulation, and Morgan Smeal hit a 3-pointer to tie the game at 62-62 with 20 seconds remaining. Concordia looked for the last shot, and Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) was fouled with less than five seconds remaining. She made one of two to give the Bulldogs a 63-62 advantage. A last-second shot by Midland fell short, and Concordia held on for the win.

Concordia was 20-of-64 (31.3 percent) from the field. The Bulldogs were just 6-of-24 (25 percent) from long range on the night. Concordia made 17-of-22 foul shots for 77.3 percent. The Bulldogs held a slim 41-39 rebounding advantage and totaled 12 assists on 20 made field goals.

Kistler finished with 15 points for Concordia in the win. Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) poured in 11 points off the bench, and Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) grabbed a team-high 11 rebounds.

Midland was 21-of-54 (38.9 percent) from the field. The Warriors were 6-of-20 (30 percent) from deep and 14-of-18 (77.8 percent) at the charity stripe.

Megan Torkelson scored 15 points to lead four players in double figures for the Warriors. Smeal added 12 points, while Jami Thramer and Tricia Hoffman scored 11 apiece.

Concordia travels to Briar Cliff University on January 22.

Cold shooting in second half costs Concordia in 72-67 loss to Briar Cliff

22 JAN 2011

Briar Cliff University rallied for a 72-67 women’s basketball win over Concordia University on Saturday afternoon in Sioux City. The Chargers outscored the Bulldogs 36-26 in the final half to secure the win. BCU improved to 14-9 overall and 7-4 in conference play with the win, while Concordia slipped to 11-10 overall and 4-7 in the GPAC with the loss.

Concordia connected on eight 3-pointers in the opening half and took a 41-36 lead into halftime. The Bulldogs were 39.1 percent from the field overall and 57.1 percent (8-of-14) from beyond the arc in the opening 20 minutes. The second half was a different story, as Concordia was just 23.3 percent from the field and 9.1 percent (1-of-11) from deep.

Briar Cliff took full advantage of Concordia’s offensive struggles in the second half. Alex Grant scored nine of her game-high 19 points in the final 20 minutes to help lift the Chargers to the win. Briar Cliff hit 26-of-64 shots (40.6 percent) in the win. The Chargers were just 6-of-24 (25 percent) from long range and 14-of-24 (58.3 percent) from the foul line. The Chargers, however, held a 26-16 advantage in points in the paint.

Grant finished with 19 points on 8-of-16 shooting from the field to pace Briar Cliff offensively. Kylie Dilla added 14 points off the bench, while Megan Salcedo delivered eight points and a game-high 10 rebounds for the Chargers.

Concordia finished 20-of-63 (31.7 percent) from the field in the loss, including 9-of-25 (36 percent) from deep. The Bulldogs connected on 18-of-19 (94.7 percent) free throw attempts and dished out 13 assists on their 20 made field goals.

Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) scored a team-best 17 points but was just 5-of-18 from the field. Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) added 15 points and a team-best nine rebounds. Lori Laboda (Parker, Colo.) scored eight points and pulled down seven boards off the bench for the Bulldogs in the loss.

Concordia hosts Doane College on January 26. Tip is scheduled for 6 p.m. at the Health, Human Performance and Athletic Center.

Offensive struggles continue for Concordia in 53-52 loss to Doane College

26 JAN 2011

A pair of made free throws by Kristine Ortmeier in the closing seconds of the game lifted Doane College to a 53-52 women’s basketball win over Concordia on Wednesday evening in Seward. The visiting Tigers improved to 7-13 overall and 5-6 in the GPAC with the win. Concordia dropped its second straight to fall to 11-11 overall and 4-8 in the GPAC.

Doane opened the game on an 11-0 run. Concordia didn’t score its first basket until almost seven minutes into the game. From there, Concordia used a 17-2 run to grab a 17-13 lead with just over six minutes remaining in the opening half. The teams traded leads several times down the stretch, and Doane took a slim 27-25 lead into halftime.

The Tigers led by five (30-25) in the opening minute of the second half, but Concordia again had an answer. Concordia reclaimed the lead at 35-34 with 14 minutes remaining. The Bulldogs held the lead for the majority of the second half and led by as many as eight (50-42) with just over three minutes remaining in regulation.

Ortmeier took over in the final minutes to fuel the Doane College comeback. Following a free throw by Cheryl Braithwait to cut the Bulldog lead to seven at 50-43, Ortmeier connected on a pair of free throws and scored in the lane to pull the Tigers within three at 50-47.

Treva Nutter (Thedford, Neb.) hit a free throw to extend Concordia’s lead back to four at 51-47 with two minutes left to play. Following a Doane timeout, Ortmeier scored and was fouled on the play. The made free throw cut Concordia’s lead to just one at 51-50 with just over a minute remaining.

Following a Concordia miss, Brittany Lurz hit one of two free throws to tie the game at 51-51 with half a minute to play. Concordia’s Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) was fouled with 10 seconds remaining and hit one of two from the line to give Concordia a slim 52-51 lead. Ortmeier was fouled with a few seconds remaining. She hit both free throws to give Doane the 53-52 advantage. A desperation 3-pointer by Concordia at the buzzer was no good, and the Tigers secured the 53-52 victory.

Doane was 19-of-39 (48.7 percent) from the field in the win, including 12-of-23 (52.2 percent) from the field in the opening half. The Tigers were 4-of-13 (30.8 percent) from behind the arc and 11-of-17 (64.7 percent) from the free throw line. Doane had 13 assists on their 19 made field goals and won the game despite 26 turnovers on the night.

Ortmeier scored a game-high 14 points in just 11 minutes of action off the bench to lead Doane. She was 3-of-4 from the field and a perfect 8-of-8 from the foul line. Nicole Skolnick added 12 points, six boards and five assists, while Brittany Luetter scored nine points on a perfect 3-of-3 shooting from long range.

Concordia struggled offensively throughout the evening in the loss. The Bulldogs were just 14-of-50 (28 percent) from the field overall and 4-of-17 (23.5 percent) from deep. Concordia finished 20-of-25 (80 percent) at the foul line and held a slim 31-30 rebounding advantage in the contest. The Bulldogs finished with 18 turnovers.

Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) scored a team-high 12 points and added six steals for the Bulldogs in a losing effort. Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) and Kat Ommen (Jefferson City, Mo.) added nine points apiece.

Concordia will compete in the Concordia Invitational Tournament on Friday and Saturday in Michigan.

Concordia pummels Concordia-Chicago in opening game of CIT

28 JAN 2011

The Concordia University women’s basketball team cruised to a 90-50 win over Concordia-Chicago on Friday afternoon in the opening game of the Concordia Invitational Tournament. With the win, the Bulldogs improved to 12-11 on the year. The Cougars dropped to 7-11 on the season with the loss.

The Bulldogs opened the game on fire and quickly built a double digit lead at 14-4. The Cougars would get no closer than seven the rest of the way, and the Bulldogs continued to pull away throughout the first half. The Bulldogs led by as many as 23 (34-11) in the opening 20 minutes and took a 46-27 lead into halftime. Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) scored 15 points on 5-of-8 shooting from behind the arc to lead the way for the Bulldogs in the first half.

In the second half, the Bulldogs continued to pour it on. Concordia-Chicago pulled within 18 (56-38) with just under 14 minutes remaining in the contest, but the Bulldogs answered with a 9-0 run to grab a 65-38 lead with 10 minutes remaining in regulation. The Bulldogs again put up over 40 points in the half and secured the easy win.

A total of five players scored in double figures for the Bulldogs on the day. Conahan finished with a team-best 17 points. Kat Ommen (Jefferson City, Mo.) and Katie Herther (Sioux Falls, S.D.) added 14 and 13 points, respectively, off the Bulldog bench. Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) had 11 points, and Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) delivered 10 for a balanced offensive attack. The Bulldogs also held a commanding 44-29 rebounding advantage and forced Concordia-Chicago into 22 turnovers on the day.

Marche Smith scored a game-high 18 points for Concordia-Chicago. Krystyna Rickett added 12 for the Cougars.

The Bulldogs will vie for their fourth straight CIT championship against either Concordia-Wisconsin or Concordia-Ann Arbor on Saturday.

Bulldogs suffer 73-55 loss to CU-Ann Arbor in CIT Championship

29 JAN 2011

CU-Ann Arbor pulled away for a 73-55 women’s basketball win over Concordia in the championship game of the CIT on Saturday afternoon. It’s the first CIT championship for CU-Ann Arbor, who improved to 16-8 with the win. The loss dropped the Bulldogs to 12-12 on the year.

The first half was a game of runs. The Bulldogs jumped out to a quick 9-3 advantage early in the contest and led by six points on multiple occasions in the first half. The host Cardinals responded, however, and took an eight point lead (27-19) with just over five minutes remaining in the half. The Bulldogs rallied and took a one point lead twice down the stretch in the first half. However, the Cardinals scored the last seven points of the half to take a 38-32 lead into halftime.

CU-Ann Arbor was 13-of-25 (52 percent) from the field and 9-of-10 at the foul line in the opening 20 minutes. The Bulldogs connected on 13-of-29 shots (44.8 percent) and were led by Katie Rich’s 12 first half points.

The host Cardinals began to pull away early in the second half, using a 10-2 run to take a 48-34 lead. The Cardinals led by double figures for much of the rest of the game, as the Bulldogs could get no closer than nine on multiple occasions. The Bulldogs cut it to 64-55 with two minutes to play, but the Cardinals scored the final nine points of the game to secure the 73-55 victory.

The Bulldogs were just 19-of-55 from the field for the game for 34.5 percent. In the second half, Concordia was just 6-of-26 for 23.1 percent. The Bulldogs also struggled from behind the arc, hitting just 3-of-22 for 13.6 percent. The Bulldogs finished with 19 turnovers compared to just six assists.

Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) scored a team-best 16 points and added nine rebounds. Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) added 13 points, and Treva Nutter (Thedford, Neb.) had 10. Conahan and Rich were each named to the All-Tournament Team.

CU-Ann Arbor was led by Kortni Elsworth’s 25 points and eight rebounds. Brittany Simmons added 18 points and seven rebounds off the bench for the Cardinals.

Concordia returns to GPAC play on February 5 at Hastings College.

Concordia rallies for 66-62 win over Hastings College

3 FEB 2011

The Concordia University women’s basketball team rallied for a 66-62 win over Hastings College on Wednesday evening. Hastings led 38-29 at the break, but the Bulldogs outscored the Broncos 37-24 in the final half to secure the win. Concordia improved to 13-12 overall and 5-8 in GPAC play with the win. Hastings slipped to 11-14 overall and 4-10 in GPAC play with the loss.

There were four ties in the opening half, but Hastings College led for the majority of the opening 20 minutes. The Broncos took their biggest lead (38-26) with just over a minute left in the first half and settled for a 38-29 halftime advantage.

The Broncos again jumped out to a big lead in the opening minutes of the second half. Hastings led by 16 on two occasions and led 51-35 with less than 13 minutes remaining in the game. Over the next six minutes, however, Concordia used a 17-0 run to grab a 52-51 lead with six minutes remaining in the contest.

The teams traded leads multiple times over the next few minutes of action. Concordia took a 58-55 lead on a 3-point play by Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) with 3:46 remaining. Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) followed with a jumper to push the lead to five at 60-55.

The Broncos cut the lead to one (60-59) with less than three minutes to play. Following misses by both teams, Rich hit one of two free throws to give Concordia a 61-59 lead with just over a minute to play. A missed free throw by Hastings College gave the ball back to the Bulldogs, and Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) hit a huge 3-pointer to increase the Concordia lead to five at 64-59 with 20 seconds to play.

Quincey King hit a 3-pointer for Hastings with 10 seconds remaining to cut the lead to two at 64-62 with 11 seconds left. Kistler hit one of two free throws for the Bulldogs to make the score 65-62. Sophia McDermott missed a 3-pointer for the Broncos, and Kistler again hit one of two free throws for the final score of 66-62.

Concordia was just 21-of-70 (30 percent) from the field in the game. The Bulldogs were 7-of-20 (35 percent) from behind the arc and 17-of-25 (68 percent) at the foul line. The Bulldog defense forced 24 Hastings College turnovers on the night, while Concordia totaled just nine turnovers in the win.

Kistler led three players in double figures with 18 points. She also added a team-best eight rebounds. Rich added 16 points, and Miller delivered 15 for the Bulldogs.

Hastings was 21-of-47 (44.7 percent) from the field in the loss. The Broncos were 7-of-18 (38.9 percent) from deep and 13-of-18 (72.2 percent) at the foul line.

McDermott and Brittney Wong each scored 16 to pace the Broncos offensively. Alicia Statler added a double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Courtney Spawn poured in 11 for the Broncos.

Concordia hosts Sioux Falls on February 5. Tip is scheduled for 2 p.m. at the Health, Human Performance and Athletic Center.

Sioux Falls holds on for 83-81 win over Concordia

5 FEB 2011

Chelsa Baxa scored in the closing seconds to lift the University of Sioux Falls to an 83-81 women’s basketball win over Concordia on Saturday afternoon in Seward. The visiting Cougars improved to 21-3 overall and 11-3 in conference play with the win. Concordia slipped to 13-13 overall and 5-9 in the GPAC with the loss.

The Bulldogs scored the first eight points of the game and led by as many as nine in the opening minutes of the game. USF rallied and took their first lead of the game at 20-19 with just under 10 minutes to play in the half. The Cougars led by as many as eight (34-26) with three minutes left in the half and took a 39-35 lead into halftime.

Concordia quickly tied the game in the opening minutes of the second half. Following a basket by USF that gave the Cougars a 44-42 lead, Concordia used a 9-0 run to grab a 51-44 advantage with just over 15 minutes left in the contest. The Bulldogs built a lead as big as 17 on two occasions and led 76-59 with less than eight minutes left in regulation.

From there, it was all Sioux Falls. The Cougars scored the next 21 points over a six minute stretch, and USF took an 80-76 lead with two minutes to play. A three point play by Treva Nutter (Thedford, Neb.) pulled the Bulldogs within one at 80-79, and a pair of made free throws by Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) gave Concordia a slim 81-80 lead with just over a minute remaining.

Baxa was fouled on USF’s next possession, and she made one of two at the line to tie the game at 81-81. Following misses by both teams and a Concordia turnover, Baxa hit a jumper in the closing seconds to give the Cougars the 83-81 lead. Conahan had a desperation 3-pointer bounce off the rim, and USF held on for the 83-81 victory.

Both teams had balanced scoring. Five players scored in double figures for the Cougars. Holli Aggen scored a game-high 22 points, while Baxa delivered 21 and six rebounds. Laura Johnson added 15 points, while Baileigh O’Brien and Elizabeth Hildreth scored 10 apiece for the Cougars.

A total of five players scored in double figures for the Bulldogs in the loss. Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) scored 19 to lead the way. Conahan added 15 and seven rebounds, while Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) and Kat Ommen (Jefferson City, Mo.) each delivered 13. Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) scored 10 points and pulled down a game-high eight rebounds for the Bulldogs.

Concordia hosts Briar Cliff University on February 9. Tip is scheduled for 8 p.m. at the Health, Human Performance and Athletic Center.

Briar Cliff jumps out early, cruises to 84-66 win over Concordia

9 FEB 2011

Briar Cliff University jumped out to a big lead in the first half and cruised to an 84-66 women’s basketball win over Concordia University on Wednesday evening in Seward. The Chargers scored the first 15 points of the game and never looked back as they improved to 18-10 overall and 11-5 in conference play. Concordia dropped to 13-14 overall and 5-10 in the GPAC with the loss.

The visiting Chargers led by as many as 21 on two separate occasions in the opening half. Briar Cliff took a 43-28 lead into halftime. The Chargers were 17-of-33 (51.5 percent) overall and 6-of-13 (46.2 percent) from deep, while Concordia struggled from the field at 8-of-27 (29.6 percent) overall and 1-of-11 (9.1 percent) from behind the arc in the opening 20 minutes.

Concordia continued to battle in the second half. After trailing by as many as 19, the Bulldogs managed to cut the lead to 10 (60-50) with eight minutes remaining in the contest. The Chargers had an answer, however, and reclaimed a comfortable lead. The Chargers led by as many as 23 down the stretch and settled for the 84-66 victory.

The Bulldogs were 21-of-57 (36.8 percent) from the field in the loss. Concordia was just 3-of-16 (18.8 percent) from long range but did hit 21-of-26 free throws for 80.8 percent. Both teams struggled with turnovers, and the Bulldogs finished with 22 giveaways on the night.

Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.), Treva Nutter (Thedford, Neb.) and Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) all scored 14 points to lead the way for Concordia. Miller and Rich led the team with six rebounds, while Rich also added four steals on the night.

Briar Cliff was 29-of-60 from the field on the night for 48.3 percent. The Chargers were 8-of-23 (34.8 percent) from deep and 18-of-21 (85.7 percent) at the foul line. BCU held a 38-35 rebounding advantage and totaled 19 assists on their 29 made field goals.

Kylie Dilla led a balanced BCU scoring attack with 15 points. Dilla also added a game-high seven rebounds. Kelsey Evans chipped in with 14 points off the bench, while Megan Salcedo, Kela Cihak and Alex Grant all scored 10 for the Chargers.

Concordia travels to Morningside College on Saturday.

Shooting woes cost Concordia in 79-63 loss to Morningside College

12 FEB 2011

Morningside College pulled away for a 79-63 women’s basketball win over Concordia on Saturday afternoon in Sioux City. The Bulldogs kept it close for much of the game, but the Mustangs used a run midway through the second half to secure the win. Morningside improved to 22-4 overall and 13-3 in conference play with the victory. Concordia dropped its third straight to fall to 13-15 overall and 5-11 in GPAC play.

Morningside led from start to finish. The Mustangs jumped out to a quick 14-5 lead in the opening five minutes of the contest and built a lead as big as 11 (29-18) in the first half. However, Concordia kept it close and trailed by just five (33-28) at halftime.

The Mustangs again built the lead back to nine in the early stages of the second half, but the Bulldogs continued to hang in there. Concordia pulled within two points on multiple occasions in the second half, but Morningside maintained the lead.

The Bulldogs pulled within eight (59-51) on the 3-pointer by Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) with just under nine minutes remaining. From there, Morningside used a quick 10-0 run to create some separation at 69-51 with six minutes left in regulation. The Mustangs led by as many as 20 down the stretch and preserved the 79-63 win.

Concordia struggled offensively in the loss, hitting just 20-of-72 shots on the day for 27.8 percent. The Bulldogs were 17-of-21 (81 percent) at the foul line, but managed just 6-of-29 (20.7 percent) shooting from deep.

Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) was the only player in double figures with 17 points. Rich also added seven rebounds. Miller finished with nine points and seven boards, while Lori Laboda (Parker, Colo.) delivered nine off the bench for the Bulldogs.

Morningside College placed four players in double figures on the day. Chelsie Trask had a double-double of 13 points and 14 rebounds, and Bobbi McManaman also scored 13 for the Mustangs. Tanaeya Worden and Brittany Alfredson added 10 apiece for Morningside College.

Concordia hosts Nebraska Wesleyan on February 16 at 6 p.m. It will be Senior Night at the Health, Human Performance and Athletic Center.

Concordia forces 25 turnovers in 80-67 win over Nebraska Wesleyan

16 FEB 2011

Concordia University led from start to finish and snapped a three-game losing streak with an 80-67 women’s basketball win over Nebraska Wesleyan on Wednesday evening in Seward. It was Senior Night at the HHPAC, as Concordia honored seniors Kat Ommen and Kristin Miller.

The Bulldogs (now 14-15 overall and 6-11 in GPAC play) raced out to a 10-0 lead in the opening five minutes of the game. It took Wesleyan (10-14, 6-11 GPAC) almost six minutes to score their first points of the game. Concordia led by as many as 11 on multiple occasions in the first half and took a 36-26 lead into halftime.

Concordia built a 15-point lead early in the second half, but Wesleyan didn’t go away. The visiting Prairie Wolves cut the lead all the way down to three (55-52) with just over nine minutes remaining in the contest. The Bulldogs answered, however, and used a 12-1 run over the next four minutes to reclaim control of the game at 67-53 with five minutes to play. The Bulldogs built the lead to 19 on two occasions in the closing minutes and settled for the 80-67 victory.

For the game, Concordia was 30-of-64 from the field for 46.9 percent. Concordia went 9-of-25 (36 percent) from deep and 11-of-14 (78.6 percent) at the charity stripe. Wesleyan shot the ball well from the field but struggled with turnovers all evening. The Prairie Wolves were 22-of-42 (52.4 percent) overall, 7-of-15 (46.7 percent) from behind the arc and 16-of-22 (72.7 percent) at the foul line. However, Concordia totaled 13 steals and forced 25 Wesleyan turnovers on the night.

Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) and Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) each scored 16 points to lead the way for Concordia offensively. The duo combined to hit 13-of-18 shots on the night, and Conahan hit four of Concordia’s nine 3-pointers on the evening. Beth Kohmetscher (Deweese, Neb.) added 12 points off the bench, and Ommen (Jefferson City, Mo.) poured in 11 for the Bulldogs. Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) had a solid game with nine points, a career-high 10 assists and six rebounds. The Bulldogs totaled 26 assists on their 30 made field goals.

Shea Rasmussen scored a game-high 23 and added five assists for Nebraska Wesleyan. Katy Golden scored 13, while Janelle Baal added 10 for the Prairie Wolves.

Concordia concludes the regular season at Mount Marty College on February 19.

Late 3-pointer lifts Mount Marty past Concordia, 70-69

19 FEB 2011

Mount Marty College hit a late 3-pointer to pick up a 70-69 women’s basketball win over Concordia on Saturday afternoon in Yankton. With the win, the Lancers improved to 22-8 overall and 12-6 in conference play. Concordia ended the regular season at 14-16 overall and 6-12 in conference play.

Neither team led by more than six in the opening half of play, and the game was tied at 29-29 at halftime. The teams combined for 19 turnovers, and Concordia was just 1-of-11 from behind the arc in the opening 20 minutes.

The second half remained close throughout the opening several minutes. Concordia led by three (50-47) with just under 10 minutes remaining in the contest. From there, the Bulldogs used a quick 9-0 run to grab a 59-47 lead with seven minutes to play.

Mount Marty answered, however, and the Lancers used a 16-3 run to take a 63-62 lead with just under three minutes remaining. Concordia reclaimed the lead with two made free throws by Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) with 2:17 left in regulation, but Mount Marty scored on their next possession to reclaim the lead at 65-64 with less than two minutes remaining.

A pair of made free throws by Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) put Concordia back on top (66-65) with 1:39 remaining, but Mount Marty’s Taylor Forsch answered with two free throws to give the Lancers a 67-66 advantage with just over a minute left to play.

On Concordia’s next possession, Rich hit a jumper and was fouled on the play. She hit the free throw to give the Bulldogs a 69-67 lead with 50 seconds remaining. On the following possession, the Bulldogs forced a Mount Marty miss but were unable to secure the rebound. Jenny Miller got the rebound for the Lancers, and Forsch connected on a 3-pointer with 20 seconds remaining in the game.

Concordia had a final possession to go for the win. Rich missed a jumper, however, and the Lancers held on for the 70-69 victory.

Mount Marty was 21-of-52 (40.4 percent), while Concordia was 23-of-64 (35.9 percent) from the field on the day. Both teams struggled from deep. Mount Marty was 5-of-21 (23.8 percent), and Concordia finished just 3-of-20 (15 percent) from long range. From the foul line, Mount Marty was 23-of-28 (82.1 percent), and Concordia was 20-of-25 (80 percent). The Bulldogs held a 42-35 rebounding advantage. Mount Marty had 20 turnovers compared to 17 for Concordia.

Jenny Miller had a game-high 17 points for the Lancers in the win. She went just 4-of-12 from the field but hit all eight of her free throws. Forsch added 14 points and was a perfect 7-of-7 at the charity stripe, and Kylie Gross also reached double figures with 11.

Rich had 14 points to lead the way for the Concordia offense. Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) added 12, while Kistler and Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) each added nine.

Concordia advances in GPAC Tournament with 61-58 win over Hastings College

22 FEB 2011

Concordia University held on for a 61-58 women’s basketball win over Hastings College in the opening round of the GPAC Tournament on Tuesday evening in Seward. With the win, the Bulldogs improved to 15-16 on the year. Concordia will now travel to Northwestern College on Thursday evening at 6 p.m. Hastings College ended the year at 12-18.

Hastings College held the lead for the entire first half. The visiting Broncos raced out to a quick 6-0 start in the opening minutes of the contest and led by as many as seven on two occasions in the half. Concordia rallied, however, and tied the game at 36-36 with half a minute remaining in the half. A late basket by Melissa Thompson gave Hastings a slim 38-36 advantage heading into halftime.

Concordia took advantage of a long dry spell by the Broncos to start the second half. Following a pair of made free throws by Alicia Statler which made the score 40-36, Hastings didn’t score again for 10 minutes. Concordia scored nine straight during that stretch to grab a 45-40 lead.

Hastings had an answer, and there were several ties and lead changes down the stretch. A layup by Sophia McDermott gave Hastings the lead at 55-54 with three minutes left in regulation. Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) gave Concordia the lead at 56-55 with a layup with just under two minutes remaining. The Bulldogs forced a Hastings miss, and Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) hit a big 3-pointer as the shot clock was winding down to push the Bulldog lead to four at 59-55 with less than half a minute to play.

Following another Hastings College miss, Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) hit a pair of free throws to stretch the Bulldog lead to six at 61-55 with 18 seconds remaining. McDermott connected on a 3-pointer as time was winding down to pull the Broncos within three at 61-58. However, Concordia was able to run the clock out and secure the 61-58 win.

Concordia managed to pick up the win despite struggles from the field. Concordia was just 19-of-56 (33.9 percent) overall and 7-of-24 (29.2 percent) from deep in the game. The Bulldogs finished 16-of-23 at the foul line for 69.6 percent. Concordia held a 44-33 rebounding advantage in the contest.

Kat Ommen (Jefferson City, Mo.) led three players in double figures with 13 points. Rich added 12 points, and Conahan delivered 11. Miller added eight points and a game-high nine rebounds, and Lori Laboda (Parker, Colo.) grabbed eight boards for the Bulldogs.

Hastings also struggled offensively, hitting just 19-of-54 (35.2 percent) shots overall and 4-of-12 (33.3 percent) 3-pointers. The Broncos were solid at the line and were 16-of-17 on the night for 94.1 percent.

Alicia Statler scored a game-high 16 for the Broncos despite foul troubles throughout the evening. Melissa Thompson added 12 points, while Frankie Petersen and Courtney Spawn each had four assists for the Broncos in the loss.

Northwestern holds off Concordia, 72-66, in GPAC Tournament

24 FEB 2011

Northwestern College earned a tough 72-66 women’s basketball win over Concordia in the quarterfinals of the GPAC Tournament on Thursday evening. Northwestern, the top seed in the tournament and No. 2 team in the NAIA, improved to 28-1 on the year with the win, while Concordia ended its season at 15-17.

Much like the first matchup earlier this year, Concordia got off to a nice start and led by three on two occasions in the opening minutes of the game. Northwestern responded and opened up a lead as big as seven (28-21). The Bulldogs pulled within two (30-28) with a minute to go in the half, but the Red Raiders scored the final four points of the half to take a 34-28 lead into halftime.

Concordia was just 29 percent from the field overall and from behind the arc (4-of-14) in the opening 20 minutes. Northwestern was 40 percent from the field in the opening 20 minutes. Kendra De Jong had 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Becca Hurley added 11 points for the Raiders in the first half. Katie Rich (Tilden, Neb.) had seven points and seven rebounds for the Bulldogs in the first half of play.

Northwestern extended to a 38-28 lead early in the second half for the first double digit lead of the game. Concordia fought back, however, and the Bulldogs pulled within three (40-37) with 17 minutes to go.

With the Raiders leading by three (44-41), Hurley scored five quick points to increase the Northwestern lead back to eight at 49-41 with just over 12 minutes remaining. Hurley went coast to coast for a layup and followed with a 3-pointer to boost the Raider lead. Concordia again rallied and pulled within four at 54-50. However, Hurley scored another quick four points to push the lead back to eight at 58-50 with eight minutes left in the contest.

A quick five points by Concordia cut the lead back down to three at 58-55. Kat Ommen (Jefferson City, Mo.) hit a tough shot in the lane, and Amber Kistler (Minatare, Neb.) connected on a 3-pointer to tighten the game once again. Following a made 3-pointer by Northwestern, Kristen Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) hit a 3-pointer to pull the Bulldogs back within three at 61-58 with less than four minutes left in regulation.

Northwestern hit a pair of free throws to take a 63-58 lead, but Conahan answered with another 3-pointer to pull the Bulldogs within two at 63-61. Following a Northwestern turnover, Conahan hit two free throws to tie the game at 63-63 with three minutes remaining.

Concordia took a 64-63 lead on a made free throw by Lori Laboda (Parker, Colo.). Northwestern quickly reclaimed the lead (65-64) with a pair of made free throws with less than two minutes to play.

Following a blocked shot, Hurley scored in transition to put the Raiders in front 67-64. Hurley was fouled on the play. She missed the free throw, but Concordia was unable to secure the rebound. Hurley hit a jumper to extend the Raider lead to five at 69-64 with less than a minute remaining.

Kristin Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) scored to pull Concordia within three at 69-66. Hurley then hit one of two free throws to push the lead to four at 70-66 with 10 seconds remaining. Concordia was unable to connect on a 3-point attempt, and Hurley hit two more free throws for the final score of 72-66. Northwestern outscored Concordia 9-2 in the final few minutes of the game.

Concordia was just 33 percent from the field in the loss compared to 47 percent for Northwestern. The Bulldogs held the rebounding advantage and totaled 16 offensive rebounds in the game. The Bulldogs were hurt down the stretch by foul trouble. Both Kistler and Ommen fouled out of the game.

Conahan led the way offensively for Concordia with 17 points. The freshman struggled overall from the field, but she played all 40 minutes and had four made 3-pointers on the night. Ommen added 15 points, and Rich added a double-double of 12 points and 11 rebounds.

Hurley and De Jong were the story for Northwestern. Hurley finished with 31 points (20 in the second half) on 11-of-19 shooting from the field. De Jong added 17 points and a career-high 22 rebounds for the Raiders.

Rich, Kistler and Conahan pick up GPAC honors

The 2010-11 GPAC Women’s Basketball All-Conference Team was announced on Wednesday. Concordia’s Katie Rich was a second team selection, while Amber Kistler and Kristen Conahan were honorable mention selections for the Bulldogs.

Rich, a sophomore from Tilden, played in 26 games this year for Concordia. Despite missing several games early in the season due to injury, she led the team with 12.5 points per game and 6.7 rebounds per game. Rich also totaled 60 assists. She was one of the top defenders on this year’s team and finished with 55 steals on the year.

Kistler (Minatare, Neb.), a transfer from Western Nebraska Community College, appeared in all 32 games this season with 30 starts for the Bulldogs. She was second on the team with 10.7 points per game and also chipped in with 4.2 rebounds per game. She dished out 64 assists and was right behind Rich with 54 steals defensively.

Conahan (Omaha, Neb.) enjoyed a solid freshman season for Concordia. She played in all 32 games with 11 starts and took over starting point guard duties for the final stretch of the season. Conahan connected on a team-best 77 3-pointers this year and was third on the team with 10.6 points per game. She finished the season with 56 assists and a team-best 72 steals.

Concordia was 15-17 overall this season with a 6-12 record in the Great Plains Athletic Conference.

Concordia places three on NAIA Scholar-Athlete list

Concordia University placed three on the 2011 Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete list. Melissa Hansen, Katie Herther and Kristin Miller all earned the honor for the Bulldogs. In order to be nominated, a student-athlete must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and must have achieved a junior academic status.

Hansen (Scotia, Neb.) appeared in just one varsity game this year due to injury. Herther (Sioux Falls, S.D.) played in 20 games, averaging 3.9 points and 2.5 rebounds. Miller (Jefferson City, Mo.) played in 31 games with 29 starts during her senior season. She averaged 9.1 points and 5.6 rebounds per game for the Bulldogs.

Concordia was 15-17 overall and 6-12 in the GPAC in 2010-11.

Rich earns honorable mention All-American honors

Concordia University sophomore Katie Rich is a 2011 NAIA Division II honorable mention All-American selection. The All-American teams were released on Wednesday.

Rich (Tilden, Neb.) has enjoyed an impressive career so far at Concordia. Last year, she was an honorable mention All-Conference selection as a freshman. This year, Rich led the team in both scoring (12.5 ppg) and rebounding (6.7 rpg) to earn second team All-GPAC honors. Rich was also named to the CIT All-Tournament Team.

Concordia was 15-17 overall and 6-12 in the GPAC this season.