Despite four players scoring in double figures and junior Allie Heinen’s third straight double-double, the Baker University women’s basketball team couldn’t overcome the No. 9 MidAmerica Nazarene University Lady Pioneers losing 81-69 in the Collins Center.
Led by the 24 points and eight rebounds of junior Jenna Matson, the Lady Pioneers jumped out to a 17-point advantage midway through the first half. The Wildcats battled back, shortening the deficit to eight, but MidAmerica Nazarene hit six straight free throws to close out the half, and Baker trailed 44-31.
In the second half, Baker outscored MidAmerica Nazarene 38-37 but couldn’t overcome the 13-point halftime lead of the Lady Pioneers. Baker eventually lost 81-69.
“We played hard the whole time and showed a lot of intensity and enthusiasm,” redshirt freshman Kendra Schaefer said. “We just had lapses at crucial times in the game, which really hurt our cause.”
Seniors Amanda Yates and Molly Ediger and freshman Holly Steffen all scored in double figures for the Wildcats. Heinen finished the game with 14 points and 13 rebounds.
The Wildcats have struggled as of late in conference play, but Heinen has continued to improve since the turn of the new year. In Baker’s last nine games, Heinen has averaged 13 points and 11.9 rebounds.
“Allie has really played well as of late,” sophomore Hannah Eagleman said. “She works extremely hard, and it’s showing on the court.”
Saturday, Baker traveled to St. Charles, Mo., to take on the Lions of Lindenwood University. Heinen had a career high of 25 points on nine of 18 attempts from the floor. Ediger added 13 points, but they weren’t enough as the ‘Cats lost 79-65.
The first day of February shined brightly on the Wildcats as they beat Graceland University 82-54. The team’s even distribution of the ball led to five Wildcats scoring in double figures. Ediger was the team’s top scorer with 14 points.
Schaefer said teamwork was key to the win.
“We came out ready to play, and we weren’t worrying about individual stats,” she said. “It was a great team game for us and a good win.”
The Wildcats faced conference foe Benedictine College Thursday night in Baldwin City, but results were unavailable at press time.
Baker must win out to have a shot at qualifying for the postseason. The team will look to right the ship when it faces Culver-Stockton College Saturday in Canton, Mo.
