SAINT PAUL, MINN.--The Hamline University women's basketball team widened their win streak to four games with a 74-45 victory over St. Catherine at Hutton Arena on Saturday.

The Pipers improve to 11-4, 6-2 MIAC, while the Wildcats fall to 7-8, 2-6 MIAC.

Hamlnie 74, St. Catherine 45

The first quarter saw the Pipers take an early lead against St. Catherine, finishing the quarter with a 20-5 advantage. Yasmeen Abed and Camille Cummings were instrumental for the Pipers, with Abed contributing multiple fast-break layups and Cummings scoring key points, including a 3-pointer with 1:05 remaining that made the score 20-5. The Wildcats struggled with turnovers, committing 10 in the frame, which the Pipers capitalized on, converting several into points. Despite a late 3-pointer by Greta Schimnowski, St. Catherine only managed two baskets in the quarter.

In the second quarter, Hamline outscored St. Catherine 21-10, fueled by strong defensive play and effective scoring inside the paint. Yasmeen Abed was instrumental with a fast-break layup and a 3-pointer, contributing to Hamline's 9-0 run midway through the quarter. The Wildcats struggled with turnovers, committing eight in the quarter, which the Pipers capitalized on with six steals. Hamline maintained control, with Anna Rynkiewich's jumper at the buzzer extending their lead to 41-15.

In the third quarter, Hamline outscored St. Catherine 22-16, with Kate Trachsel contributing significantly by scoring a 3-pointer and a layup early on. St. Catherine's Hattie Fox made an impact, converting four free throws and a 3-pointer, but the team struggled with shooting, going 2-for-10 from the field. Hamline's Yasmeen Abed also stood out, making a 3-pointer and assisting on multiple plays. Fouls were prevalent, with the Pipers committing seven compared to St. Catherine's three, but the Wildcats capitalized on free throws, making 11-of-12 attempts.

In the fourth quarter, Hamline secured a strong start with Evelyn Wiltrout's layup at 7:53, followed by a successful fast-break layup from Kate Trachsel, increasing their lead to 67-31 with 7:31 remaining. Lauren Cooper capitalized on a foul from St. Catherine's Kristen Oberle, making two free throws to further extend Hamline's advantage. Despite a timeout by St. Catherine, Hamline's Aliyah Wensel added to the lead with two free throws and a 3-pointer, bringing the score to 74-37. St. Catherine attempted a comeback with Olivia Gannon and Elle Covey contributing a 3-pointer and a jumper, narrowing the gap to a final score of 74-45, with St. Catherine outscoring Hamline 14-11 in the quarter.

Kate Trachsel led Hamline with a standout performance, scoring 19 points on 8-for-10 shooting. She also contributed six assists and two steals, highlighting her all-around play. Yasmeen Abed was a strong contributor as well, adding 14 points and five steals, showcasing her defensive prowess. Camille Cummings also had an impactful game with 13 points and four steals, along with five rebounds. Josie Schmidt made her presence known on defense with three steals.

Hamline, who forced a season-high 30 turnovers, finished with 21 steals and 16 assists.

Hattie Fox led the Wildcats with a strong performance, scoring fourteen points on three-of-five shots and seven out of eight free throws. She also contributed significantly on the boards with nine rebounds. Lily Peper stood out defensively, recording two steals and adding a block to her stats. Lastly, Jordyn Peed made an impact with five points and a block, although she struggled with turnovers, committing four in the game.

The Pipers will host Gustavus Adolphus at Hutton Arena on Wednesday, January 22 at 7:30 p.m.