Third quarter burst pushes Mustangs past Benedictine

SIOUX CITY, Iowa – In the home opener for the Mustangs, a balanced offensive attack and stout defense resulted in a 73-58 win over Benedictine Saturday evening inside Allee Gymnasium and the Rosen Verdoorn Sports Center.

The third quarter proved to be the difference in the game, as Morningside gave up four quick points to lose their 26-23 halftime lead, but proceeded to go on a 16-0 run to open up a 45-30 lead and they didn't look back. 

Benedictine led 10-9 after one quarter, but the Mustangs would go on to score 17 or more in the final three quarters to run away with the win. The first half was led by Jaeden Webb, who had eight points off the bench in the first 20 minutes of play. Webb finished with 11 points on 3-of-6 from the field. 

The Mustang defense was tight most of the game, forcing 26 turnovers and holding the Ravens under 45% shooting on the night. The Ravens shot 41.8% from the field and 33% from deep in the loss.

Meanwhile, the Mustang offense found a rhythm in the tune of 51% shooting from the floor and 55% from beyond the arc. Morningside also converted 16-of-19 free throw attempts in the win.

Alexis Spier tallied 13 points and four rebounds to pace the offensive charge. Chaise Pfanstiel added 12 points, all from three-point range, to go with four rebounds, three assists and three steals. Chloe Lofstrom added 11 points, six rebounds, five assists and two blocks. 

Outside of Webb's 11 points off the bench, Lauren Hedlund tallied nine points on 2-of-2 shooting. She also went 5-for-5 from the free throw line down the stretch to help keep Benedictine out of reach. 

Morningside shifts their attention to GPAC play after Saturday's win, as their next seven games are against conference foes. Wednesday night, Morningside heads to Seward for a showdown against No. 11 Concordia. Tip-off is scheduled for 6 p.m.