NORTHFIELD, Minn. — Hamline (14-3, 8-2 MIAC) defeated St. Olaf (5-12, 0-10 MIAC), 63-26, on Saturday with a strong defensive performance, forcing 30 turnovers and recording 14 steals. The Pipers' bench contributed significantly with 28 points. This is the Pipers 10th straight win, putting them tied for first in the MIAC conference standings. 

The game commenced with St. Olaf taking an early lead through a three-pointer by Bree Wilkerson, assisted by Joy Brandenstein. However, the Pipers quickly responded and secured control with a scoring burst led by Camille Cummings, who netted a three-pointer at 7:23 and followed up with a layup shortly after. Anna Rynkiewich contributed significantly with a layup and two free throws, extending the lead to 17-6. Emma Lamppa added to the offensive momentum with a fast-break three-pointer, and Sophie Stork capped the quarter with another three at 11 seconds, bringing Hamline to a 24-8 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Hamline increased their lead in the second quarter, capitalizing on St. Olaf's turnovers. Cummings initiated the scoring with a layup at 3:52, extending the lead to 16 points. Stork contributed significantly with two consecutive layups, the latter assisted by Lauren Cooper, to push the score to 34-14 with 1:08 remaining. Josie Schmidt closed the quarter with a fast-break layup, resulting in a 36-14 advantage for Hamline.

Josie Wiebusch initiated the third quarter scoring for Hamline with a layup at 9:34, setting the tone for the quarter. Cooper and Cummings both converted fast-break layups, contributing to Hamline's dominance. Schmidt and Lamppa each added a three-pointer, further extending the lead. St. Olaf's Brandenstein responded with a three-pointer, but Hamline maintained control, finishing the quarter with a 50-19 lead.

In the fourth quarter, Hamline secured a decisive win over St. Olaf with a 13-7 scoring advantage. Cooper initiated the scoring with a layup at 8:29, pushing the Pipers' lead further. Cummings added two free throws at 7:05, and Schmidt capitalized on a fast break with a layup at 3:44. Josie Lupinek extended Hamline's lead with a three-pointer at 2:18, assisted by Isabella Jensen. Taylor Starks sealed the game with two free throws at 43 seconds remaining, ensuring a comprehensive victory for the Pipers.

Cummings led the team with 16 points, converting 6 of 10 field goals and hitting two 3-pointers. Rynkiewich contributed defensively with three steals and added six points while collecting six rebounds. Stork scored nine points and recorded two steals, complementing her three assists. Schmidt added seven points, making 3 of 4 field goal attempts and blocking one shot.

The Pipers will head to St. Peter, Minn. next on January 28 to take on the Gusties at 7 PM!