Tigers cruise past Presentation

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – From beginning to end, the Dakota Wesleyan University women's basketball team never trailed as they handled Presentation College, 90-49 in the Sanford Pentagon NAIA Basketball Classic on Sunday in Sioux Falls, S.D.

 The Tigers opened the game quickly on a 12-2 run after Matti Reiner (Tripp, S.D.) found nothing but net. After PC made a free throw, DWU responded with a quick 5-0 spurt to push its lead to 17-3.

 Heading down the stretch of the first quarter, Rynn Osthus (De Smet, S.D.) knocked down a shot with just seconds left to push the Tiger (2-0) lead to 25-13.

 Almost two minutes into the second period, Haylee Mork (Aberdeen, S.D.) found Reiner behind the arc as she made her long-range shot. Moments later, freshman Hannah Behrens (Brandon, S.D.) helped the Tigers extend their lead with consecutive baskets.

 Following the last Behrens basket, the Tigers finished the half on a 9-3 run to take a 50-20 advantage into halftime.

 Kaylee Kirk (Balaton, Minn.) kicked off the second half with a shot to begin the scoring. DWU continued to build on its lead as Reiner dished the ball to Korynn Clason (Cambridge, Neb.) who converted on her shot.

 Reiner and Clason paired up for another basket with three minutes to play in the quarter to push the lead to 27 points. The Tigers never looked back as they cruised to their second win of the early season.

 Four players scored in double figures as Reiner notched 12 points and four rebounds. Kirk finished with a well-rounded afternoon with six points, four steals, four assists and three rebounds. DWU forced 22 turnovers and allowed just one made 3-pointer by PC in the game.

 The Tigers open their conference slate against Briar Cliff University at 6 p.m. on Wednesday at the Corn Palace.