"We had great moments against NDSCS, but our conditioning and lack of time together prevented us from performing consistently against a very talented team," said M State Head Coach Janice Hendrickson.  "This is a tough, but good game to open with because it exploits all areas we need to work on."

NDSC made 50% (34-68) of their field goal attempts and placed three players in double digits, led by Lauren Johnson with 20 points on 8-of-11 shooting. Abby Johnson added 16 points off the bench, making 5-of-6 field goal attempts and Olivia Bell added 12 points. Nikki Metcalfe grabbed a team high 10 rebounds and chipped in with 8 points. Jazmine Glenn had a team high 6 assists and 5 steals. 

Sydney Hovland led the lady Spartans with 12 points and Megan Dreger added 10. Alexa Mortenson and Taylin Schleicher contributed 9 points apiece. Mortenson had a team high six boards and Schleicher grabbed five. Kassandra Algarate distributed five assists and scored 7 points. 

M State will open their home season at 5:30pm Friday when they host Central Lakes Community College from Brainerd.