Holland Reporter

The Grand Valley State University (GVSU) women's basketball team secured a spot in the semifinals of the GLIAC Tournament with a victory over Purdue Northwest. The game, held in Allendale, Michigan, saw GVSU maintain control for most of the matchup, concluding with a 65-54 win.

Purdue Northwest initially scored first, but GVSU quickly countered with a 9-0 run, highlighted by an Abrie Cabana three-pointer. Although Purdue Northwest managed to tie the game at nine points each, GVSU responded with another 10-0 run. The Lakers led 23-14 by the end of the first quarter.

Throughout most of the second quarter, GVSU kept their lead above ten points, reaching a peak of 14 points after Rylie Bisballe's free throws. Despite a subsequent three-pointer from Purdue Northwest, Cabana extended GVSU's lead to 37-24 at halftime with a late layup.

In the second half, Purdue Northwest narrowed their deficit to eight points early on. However, GVSU responded with a quick 7-0 run to extend their lead back to 15 points. By the end of the third quarter, GVSU led by 14 points at 52-38.

Although Purdue Northwest launched an 8-0 run in the final quarter to cut down GVSU's lead to single digits again, Hadley Miller contributed four consecutive points for GVSU. This helped secure their advancement to Saturday’s semifinals against Parkside.

Nicole Kamin played a pivotal role in securing this victory for GVSU with her performance tallying up 18 points alongside three steals and two blocks. Rylie Bisballe achieved a double-double with her contribution of 13 points and grabbing 14 rebounds. Abrie Cabana added nine points and dished out three assists while Lexi Plitzuweit recorded eight points and six rebounds.

Looking ahead, GVSU will continue hosting duties for the remainder of the GLIAC Tournament starting with Saturday’s semifinal match against Parkside.