DULUTH, Minn. - The St. Scholastica Saints Women's Basketball Team earned an important home victory on Saturday afternoon, defeating No. 21-ranked Bethel 65-63 at Reif Gymnasium in a tightly contested conference matchup.
The Saints set the tone early, opening the game with strong defensive pressure and efficient offense to take a first-quarter lead. Bethel responded over the middle quarters, using its experience and depth to keep the game close as teams traded momentum throughout the afternoon.
St. Scholastica remained composed despite several Bethel runs, relying on balanced contributions and consistent effort on both ends of the floor. The game featured multiple ties and six lead changes, with neither team about to create significant separation.
In the fourth quarter, the Saints executed down the stretch, converting key possessions and making timely stops to maintain a narrow advantage. Free throws in the final minute proved critical as Bethel attempted to rally late.
Evie Schmitz (Burnsville, MN/St. Louis Park) led the Saints offensively, finishing with a game-high 20 points while knocking down four-three pointers and converting key free throws late.
Ava Haus (St. Michael, MN/St. Michael-Albertville High School) added 16 points and a team-high 10 rebounds, providing a steady presence inside and contributing on both ends of the floor.
Kloey Lind (Pine City, MN/Pine City HS) chipped in seven points and six rebounds, while
Ryaan Speer (Rochester, MN/Rochester Century HS) added nine points off the bench, including timely trips to the free-throw line.
Defensively, the Saints stayed connected throughout the game, forcing turnovers and limiting second chance opportunities. The Saints also capitalized at the free-throw line, shooting 85 percent as a team, which proved crucial in a game decided by 2 points.
The victory marks a significant moment for the Saints, who earned an upset against a nationally ranked Bethel team and demonstrated their ability to perform in high-level conference matchups. St. Scholastica will look to build on the result as the season continues.
The Saints return to action Wednesday, when they head to St. Peter, Minnesota to take on the Golden Gusties of Gustavus Adolphus. Tip off is at 7:00pm.
