Holland Reporter

Grand Valley State University (GVSU) secured a decisive victory over Ferris State in a recent matchup between the top two women's teams in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC). The Lakers took control early with a dominant first quarter, leading to a 78-57 win. This victory extends their lead in the GLIAC to four games, holding a 14-0 conference record and an overall record of 24-1.

The game began with GVSU taking the lead on their opening possession with a three-pointer from Abrie Cabana. The Lakers maintained their advantage throughout, starting with a 21-0 run after an initial Bulldog basket. Nicole Kamin and Hadley Miller contributed three-pointers during this stretch. Ellie Droste's buzzer-beating layup at the end of the first quarter put GVSU ahead 26-4.

In the second quarter, Rylie Bisballe and MacKenzie Bisballe expanded GVSU's lead, with MacKenzie scoring five consecutive points. Despite efforts by Ferris State to narrow the gap, GVSU led by 31 points at halftime, with a score of 44-13.

Ferris State attempted a comeback in the second half with a 15-3 run but was countered by four straight points from Kathryn Schmidt and another three-pointer from Miller. With ten minutes remaining, GVSU led 56-32.

The final period saw both teams increase their scoring, combining for 47 points. Although Ferris State ended the game on a strong note with a 17-5 run, it was insufficient to overcome GVSU's substantial lead.

MacKenzie Bisballe led GVSU off the bench with 17 points, five rebounds, and two blocks. Rylie Bisballe achieved her third double-double of the season with 13 points, 13 rebounds, and three blocks. Nicole Kamin also scored 13 points while shooting efficiently and contributing defensively with five rebounds and three steals. Abrie Cabana and Hadley Miller each added ten points to the scoreboard.

Looking ahead, GVSU will conclude their season on the road next weekend against Purdue Northwest on Thursday and Parkside on Saturday.