MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Hamline University (15-5, 9-4 MIAC) defeated Augsburg University (5-15, 2-11 MIAC), 64-44, at Si Melby Hall, maintaining control with 17 steals and 35 points off turnovers. The Pipers led wire-to-wire, capitalizing on a 16-point advantage in the paint.

Hamline opened the game decisively, with Sophie Stork hitting back-to-back three-pointers to set the tone in the first minute. Lauren Cooper contributed significantly, assisting on both of Stork's shots and adding a three-pointer of her own at 8:29, pushing the lead to 11-0. Camille Cummings extended the lead with a three-point play at 8:10, making it 14-0 before Augsburg managed to score their first points at 7:36. Hamline's defense was effective, forcing 11 turnovers in the quarter, which helped them maintain a 21-5 lead by the end of the first quarter.

Hamline extended their lead over Augsburg in the second quarter, capitalizing on turnovers and fast-break opportunities. Cummings and Anna Rynkiewich each added significant points with layups, while Rynkiewich consistently converted her free throws. The visitors forced multiple turnovers, as shown by their seven steals, which helped maintain pressure on Augsburg. Augsburg struggled with ball control, committing 11 turnovers, and despite efforts from Tyliah Frazier and Jada Stanford, they could not close the gap. The quarter concluded with Hamline leading 39-15, bolstered by a layup from Rynkiewich in the final seconds.

Jada Stanford led Augsburg with three layups in the third, starting with a basket at 8:47. Cummings responded for the Pipers with a jumper at 8:28. Later, Marina LaFreniere capitalized on a fast break with a layup at 2:51, adding to Hamline's tally. Despite a late three-pointer from Sydney Hazuga at 3:34, Augsburg could not close the gap significantly, ending the period trailing 50-29.

In the fourth quarter, Hamline maintained its lead to secure a 64-44 victory over Augsburg. Josie Schmidt contributed with a crucial layup at 4:59, extending Hamline's advantage to 55-35. Taylor Starks added a layup at 2:58, pushing the score further to 60-35. Augsburg's late efforts included a three-pointer by Hazuga at 0:56, but it was not enough to close the gap. Melanie Delestrez capped the scoring for Augsburg with a layup in the final seconds, assisted by Kaylee Buerman.

Rynkiewich scored 11 points and recorded seven rebounds while adding three steals. Cummings led the team with 14 points, converting five of nine field goal attempts and collecting five rebounds. Schmidt contributed with four steals, three assists, and scored four points. Stork provided six points, dished out five assists, and tallied two steals.

The Pipers will be on the road to take on the MIAC leading Cobbers on Saturday, February 7 at with tipoff scheduled for 1 PM.