SIOUX CENTER, IA — Dakota Wesleyan pulled off a thrilling upset over top-ranked Dordt Tuesday night, winning 84-76 at DeWitt Gymnasium to capture their first Great Plains Athletic Conference tournament championship since 2022.
The Tigers (25-6) overcame a season of close battles with the Defenders (29-2) to earn the crown, taking an early lead in the second quarter and maintaining momentum throughout the night.
DWU’s Avery Broughton led the way with 19 points and seven rebounds, while Emma Yost added 20 points and a critical 3-point shot late in the second quarter to give the Tigers a brief lead. Rylee Rosenquist chipped in 17 points, and Maleighya Estes scored 16, providing a balanced attack that Dordt couldn’t match.
The game marked another chapter in a heated rivalry. Dakota Wesleyan leads the all-time series 47-41, but Dordt had won the two prior meetings this season, including a 65-59 win at the Corn Palace in February. Despite Dordt’s strong shooting, led by Gracie Schoonhoven’s 35 points and Macy Sievers’ 23, the Tigers’ resilience and balanced scoring proved decisive.
With the win, Dakota Wesleyan not only secured the GPAC title but also confirmed a spot in the 2026 NAIA Women’s Basketball National Championship. The Tigers will host the opening two rounds of the 64-team tournament at the Corn Palace March 13-14, marking the first time DWU has hosted national tournament games since the format changed in 2022.
Tuesday’s victory also marked a signature moment for the Tigers on the road, as Dordt had won 48 straight home games prior to the matchup. The Tigers’ balanced scoring, timely 3-pointers, and stout defense, including 15 team assists and 7 blocks, helped overcome Dordt’s shooting percentage advantage and claim the conference crown.
Dakota Wesleyan will now turn its attention to the NAIA tournament, where the Tigers aim to build on their momentum and continue their run from the Corn Palace.