Warriors Drop Dramatic Game to Northwestern Oklahoma State

WINONA, Minn. – In a thrilling contest that came down to the final seconds, Winona State University’s women’s basketball team faced a narrow defeat against Northwestern Oklahoma State, losing 53-52.

Game Summary

The matchup at McCown Gymnasium drew a crowd of 884 fans, who witnessed a tense defensive clash. The Warriors began the game with strong inside shooting but struggled from beyond the arc, finishing the first quarter with a 1-6 record from three-point range. After ten minutes of play, Winona State trailed 18-15.

In the second quarter, the Warriors’ defense tightened, limiting the Rangers to just four field goals. Key contributions came from Megan Schuman, who added two free throws, and a timely three-pointer by Vivica Bretton, allowing Winona State to enter halftime only three points behind, with a score of 29-26.

Second Half Dynamics

After halftime, the Warriors came out with renewed energy, sinking four three-pointers in the third quarter, including two from Breah Golden. With a scoring surge led by Lydia Lakanen and another trey from Bretton, Winona State flipped the script and took a brief lead at 39-37. However, Northwestern Oklahoma struck back late in the quarter, tying the game at 39 as they headed into the final period.

Clutch Moments

The fourth quarter turned into a hard-fought battle as both teams struggled offensively. Breah Golden managed to connect on her fourth three-pointer with just over six minutes remaining, keeping the game tight. Despite the Warriors’ efforts to stay within a possession, Northwestern Oklahoma succeeded at the free-throw line and prevented Winona State from scoring in the game’s critical moments, ultimately sealing the narrow victory.

Statistical Highlights

• Winona State shot 34.0% (17-50) from the field; Northwestern Oklahoma shot 43.8% (21-48).
• The Warriors attempted a high volume of three-point shots, finishing 28.1% (9-32), compared to the Rangers’ 31.3% (5-16).
• Rebounding was dominated by Northwestern Oklahoma, who secured 36 boards to Winona State’s 27, including 11 offensive rebounds.
• Winona State recorded 13 assists on 17 made field goals and forced the Rangers into 16 turnovers.
• Breah Golden led the Warriors with 14 points, making four three-pointers.
• Megan Schuman contributed 9 points, shooting seven-of-12 at the free-throw line.
• Vivica Bretton recorded a well-rounded game with 6 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds.
• Lydia Lakanen added 5 points from the bench.
• For Northwestern Oklahoma, Jaida Shipp was the standout, scoring 17 points and grabbing 8 rebounds, while Summya Adigun added 16 points.

Upcoming Game

The Winona State Warriors will look to bounce back on Tuesday, November 18th, with a matchup against the Upper Iowa Peacocks at 6:00 PM in Fayette, Iowa.