SAINT PAUL, MINN.--The Hamline University women's basketball team fell to No. 8 Gustavus Adolphus 67-51 at Hutton Arena on Wednesday night.

The Pipers fall to 11-5, 6-3 MIAC, while the Gusties improve to 15-1, 8-1 MIAC.

Gustavus 67, Hamline 51

In the first quarter, the Pipers took an early lead with a jumper by Kate Trachsel before Gustavus Adolphus responded with a 3-pointer from Morgan Kelly at 8:57. The Gusties maintained the lead with a series of successful layups and free throws, highlighted by Emma Kniefel's performance, bringing the score to 16-14 with 1:07 remaining. Hamline's Camille Cummings contributed significantly with two 3-pointers, the latter putting Hamline ahead 17-16 at the end of the quarter. Defensive plays were notable on both sides, with Camille Cummings and Kate Trachsel contributing key rebounds and blocks to keep the score close throughout.

In the second quarter, the Gusties outscored Hamline 21-13. Early in the frame, the visitors capitalized on multiple offensive rebounds, with Morgan Kelly scoring a layup at 9:12 to give them an 18-17 lead. Yasmeen Abed responded with a layup shortly after, but Gustavus took control with a 12-4 scoring run, highlighted by Izzy Quick's layup and free throws, extending their lead to 26-21. Despite Camille Cummings hitting a 3-pointer for the Pipers near the end of the quarter, Gustavus maintained their lead with free throws from Syd Hauger, closing the quarter with a 37-30 advantage.

In the third quarter, the Gusties edged out Hamline with a score of 10-9, despite a strong start from Yasmeen Abed, who scored four-consecutive free throws, bringing the score to 39-34 at one point. Gustavus capitalized on Hamline's turnovers, with Emma Kniefel scoring multiple layups, including one assisted by Izzy Quick to extend their lead. The quarter concluded with the Gusties maintaining a slight 47-39 advantage, thanks to a pair of successful free throws by Syd Hauger in the final seconds.

In the fourth quarter, the Gusties outscored the Pipers 20-12, beginning with Yasmeen Abed's layup at the 9:46 mark for Hamline. The visiting team capitalized on several opportunities, with Emma Kniefel and Kylie Baranick each making significant contributions, including Kniefel's 3-pointer and a series of free throws by Rachel Kawiecki to extend the lead. Camille Cummings of Hamline remained active, scoring multiple free throws, but the Gusties maintained control with effective shooting and defensive rebounds, highlighted by Baranick's 3-pointer at 6:34 and another successful layup. Despite some defensive efforts from Hamline, such as Aliyah Wensel's steal, the team struggled with turnovers and fouls, contributing to the Gusties' 67-51 victory.

Yasmeen Abed led the scoring effort with 19 points, supported by a strong shooting performance with seven baskets made. Camille Cummings matched Abed's point total with 19, contributing with six baskets made, including three from beyond the arc. Kate Trachsel was notable on defense, securing two steals, while also adding six points and three assists. Marina LaFreniere also had an impact on defense with two steals during the game. The Pipers shot .409 (18-of-44) from the field.

Emma Kniefel stood out for the Gusties with an impressive performance, scoring 16 points on six baskets made, while also contributing nine rebounds and three assists. Izzy Quick showcased her playmaking skills with five assists, complementing her five points and six rebounds. Morgan Kelly was a defensive force, leading the team with two steals, and added 10 points to the scoreboard. Rachel Kawiecki matched Kniefel in scoring, also recording 16 points with six baskets made, and contributed three rebounds. The Gusties shot .418 (23-of-55) from the field.

The Pipers will travel to St. Scholastica on Saturday, January 25 for a 3 p.m. game.