On Saturday, Dec. 9, the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse women’s basketball team defeated the Spartans of the University of Dubuque (Iowa) 58-47. The Eagles improve their overall record to 6-2 and extended their winning streak to five games. 

UWL was quick to score with the first shot from UWL sophomore, Dani Craig with the assist from UWL senior, Elise DeNoyer. The Eagles led 6-0 before Dubuque scored two. After a 5 point run from the Spartans, UWL junior, Kylee Marks scored off a layup, ending the first quarter 11-8.  

At the start of the second quarter, La Crosse was the first to score after a layup from UWL freshman, Ava Kramer. However, the Spartans quickly caught up scoring three and closing the gap to only two points. After several baskets from both teams, UWL and Dubuque tied it up with 2:12 left in the first half. The Spartans continued their 9-point run, and the first half ended 25-20, Dubuque.  

“We were very happy with how we played defensively and how well we rebounded” added Craig, “It was huge to get second shots in the first half while our offense was finding it’s rhythm. As a team, we just continue to get better week after week.” 

After the half time break, the Eagles started off strong as UWL senior, Sydney Kannel hit a three point shot within the first 30 seconds and another one less than a minute after. The Spartans led the whole first half of the third quarter until DeNoyer hit a three point shot to tie the game 34-34.  

La Crosse continued their run scoring six points, leading 40-34 with 2:55 minutes left in the quarter. Although Dubuque was able to close the gap by three, the Eagles continued to score, ending the third quarter with a 10-point lead, 49-39. 

“We were able to get a lot of good shots within our offense throughout the game” noted Kannel,  “Although they weren’t falling the first half, when we came out the second half they started to fall more which allowed us to take the lead and maintain it.” 

The Eagles momentum continued into the last quarter of the game, as UWL scored six different times ending the game 58-47.  

“The Dubuque game was a good all-around team win” UWL Head Coach, Karen Middleton shared. “Hopefully, we can take that energy into the Wednesday game against Marian and go into a little break with some momentum”.  

“We are the first of a doubleheader header with our men.  We hope everyone can come to Mitchell and watch two good games and support your Eagles.” 

The Eagles take on Marian University on Wednesday, Dec. 13 at 5:30 in Mitchell Hall.