Dutch women’s basketball team falls to Luther

Central College

PELLA — The Central College women’s basketball team was defeated by Luther College Wednesday night 75-72.

Central (8-4 overall, 1-2 Iowa Conference) raced out to a 20-9 first quarter lead over Luther (8-4 overall, 4-0 conference) but the Norse cut the Dutch lead to 37-30 at the half. Luther hit eight second-half 3-pointers to rally past the Dutch.

The Dutch were led by sophomore forward Claire Marburger (Perry) with 23 points and 12 rebounds, her sixth statistical double-double of the season, junior guard Emily Dine (Oldsmar, Fla., East Lake HS) had 16 points and three rebounds and junior forward Jackie Kriegel (Marengo, Iowa Valley HS) had 16 points and six rebounds.

“Jackie had a phenomenal game,” said coach Chelsea Petersen. “Jackie brought amazing energy to the floor tonight. When she was on the floor she elevated the people around her. Claire and Emily hit big shots for us but I really thought Jackie’s play was crucial tonight.”

Central won the rebound battle 45-42 and had the edge 38.8% to 34.4% from the field. The difference in the game was 3-point shooting. The Dutch made five 3s but the Norse capitalized with 11 3s.

“The third quarter was a crucial quarter for us,” said Petersen. “We had a few players get into foul trouble and then Luther went on a run. They made eight 3s in the second half but made five in the third quarter.”

Central continues league play Saturday traveling to Storm Lake for a battle with Buena Vista. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m. at Siebens Fieldhouse. Central is coming off back-to-back losses and the Beavers are coming off a loss to Grand View last Friday.