SAINT PAUL, Minn. — The Hamline basketball team (14-5, 8-4 MIAC) was narrowly edged by St. Catherine University (10-9, 5-7 MIAC), 53-50, despite forcing 29 turnovers and securing 19 steals. The game featured four lead changes and ended with a tense fourth quarter, where St. Catherine outscored the Pipers 24-20. The Pipers also celebrated their 7 seniors before the game for Senior Day. 

The game began with St. Catherine's Jordyn Peed scoring a layup at 9:54, quickly putting the visitors ahead. Hamline's Lauren Cooper responded with a three-pointer at 6:38, narrowing the lead to 4-3. Josie Schmidt contributed significantly for Hamline, scoring a layup at 5:40 and another at 4:33 to keep the home team competitive. However, the Wildcats maintained their momentum, with Raya Cassidy completing a three-point play at 2:21, extending their lead. Olivia Gannon sealed the first-quarter action with a three-pointer, giving St. Kate's an 18-12 advantage at the close of the quarter.

Lauren Cooper led the Pipers' offensive efforts in the second quarter, scoring six points, including a fast-break layup at 2:40 and a jumper in the paint at 1:28. Despite their efforts, Hamline trailed in shooting efficiency, hitting only 3 of their 16 field goal attempts. St. Kate's managed to maintain a narrow edge, with Hattie Fox contributing a three-pointer at 7:23, keeping the visitors slightly ahead. Hamline capitalized on turnovers, forcing seven from the Wildcats, culminating in a strong defensive presence. The quarter ended with Hamline outscoring St. Catherine 8-7, although the visitors maintained a small overall lead.

The third quarter showcased a strong defensive performance from Hamline as they outscored St. Kate's, 10-4. St. Catherine's Jordyn Peed opened with a jumper, but Hamline quickly responded with a series of defensive stops, including two steals by Anna Rynkiewich, who also contributed four points through layups. Cooper added to the Pipers' momentum with two layups, while Marina LaFreniere's layup at 5:41 gave Hamline their first lead of the quarter. Despite St. Catherine's Hattie Fox converting two free throws late, the Pipers maintained their defensive pressure with six steals, closing the quarter with a narrow 30-29 lead.

The fourth quarter saw a tense battle as St. Kate's edged out Hamline with a 24-20 advantage to secure a 53-50 victory. Julia Harmon initiated the scoring with a three-pointer, followed by Hattie Fox contributing crucial points from both the field and free-throw line. Schmidt kept Hamline competitive with key layups and free throws, while Camille Cummings added a late three-pointer to narrow the gap. Despite Hamline's efforts, Fox's consistent free-throw shooting in the closing seconds sealed the win for the visitors.

Lauren Cooper scored 11 points and collected six rebounds. Rynkiewich recorded five steals and added three points. Schmidt led with 13 points while posting three steals. LaFreniere added four points and tallied four steals.

The Pipers will be across the river at Augsburg on Wednesday, February 4 to take on the Auggies at 7 PM!