ORANGE CITY, Iowa — Behind a dominant performance from Avery Broughton and a strong second-half push, Dakota Wesleyan pulled away for an 81-65 road victory over Northwestern on Saturday at the Bultman Center.
The Tigers (22-6, 18-4 GPAC) used balanced scoring early and a decisive third quarter to create separation from the Red Raiders (16-12, 12-10 GPAC).
Broughton led the way with a game-high 30 points on an efficient 13-of-18 shooting night while adding 14 rebounds for a double-double. Emma Yost followed with 23 points and four assists, and Jaida Young chipped in 10 points and eight rebounds.
Dakota Wesleyan came out strong, building a 24-18 lead after one quarter behind Broughton’s early scoring in the paint. Northwestern battled back in the second period and briefly grabbed momentum, trimming the deficit to five at halftime, 38-33.
The game turned decisively in the third quarter.
The Tigers opened the half with defensive stops and second-chance opportunities, outscoring Northwestern 22-14 in the frame. A Rosenquist putback and a Yost finish helped push the margin to double digits, and Northwestern never seriously threatened again.
Dakota Wesleyan continued to control the tempo in the fourth, extending the lead to as many as 18 before closing out the 16-point win.
The Tigers dominated the glass, outrebounding Northwestern 46-32, including 16 offensive boards that led to key extra possessions. Dakota Wesleyan also shot 47 percent from the field and converted 19 of 23 free throws.
Northwestern was led by Ashtyn Wobig with 21 points, while Maddie Pottebaum added 12 and Jenna Kluxdal scored eight off the bench. The Red Raiders shot just 35 percent from the floor.
Dakota Wesleyan will be the No. 2 seed in the GPAC Tournament. The Tigers host Doane on Wednesday at 7 pm at the Corn Palace.