Slow Start for Women's Basketball Costly in Hastings

HASTINGS, Neb. — Hastings used a fast start and a turnover-fueled attack to pull away from Doane in an 83-62 GPAC women's basketball decision on Wednesday night at Lynn Farrell Arena.

The Broncos (20-7, 16-5 GPAC) scored the first-quarter tone-setter, jumping out to a 29-9 lead after forcing 10 Doane turnovers in the opening period while hitting five 3-pointers. Doane (12-14, 9-12 GPAC) steadied offensively in the middle quarters, but Hastings' pressure and depth kept the Tigers at arm's length the rest of the way.

Doane outscored Hastings 21-17 in the fourth quarter and got into a better rhythm at the free throw line (18-of-21), but the Tigers were unable to overcome 26 turnovers that turned into 20 Hastings points. The Broncos finished with 23 steals on the night.

Keeleigh Knobbe led Doane with 14 points, adding three steals and three assists. Rylie Rice posted a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, while Megan Chambers added 10 points. Emma Vander Plaats and Mattea Kassebaum scored eight apiece, with Kassebaum also contributing six rebounds and two assists.

Hastings was paced by Ann Bose and Bailey Kissinger, who each scored 15 points. McKenna Yates added 13 points, 10 rebounds, four assists and four steals, while Josilyn Miller chipped in 11 points.

As a team, Doane shot 34.4% (21-of-61) from the field and 2-of-16 from three-point range.

The Tigers will close out the regular season on Saturday as they host Midland. Senior Day recognition will take place following the women's contest.

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