Storm drop Gustavus Tip-Off opener to UW-River Falls after costly second quarter

ST. PETER, Minn. – Simpson was leading 19-18 through the first quarter but a 14-3 run from the UW-River Falls was too much for the Storm to recover from as they fell 72-63 on Friday night at the Gustavus Tip-Off Tournament.

The Storm (1-2) got within four point at 67-63 when Mackenzie Haupt hit a free throw with 22 seconds remaining in the game, although the Falcons hit five more free throws to close the game.

Despite the loss, Simpson hung with UW-River Falls (2-0) in many team statistical categories, outscoring the Falcons 12-10 on second chance points while allowing only two more points in the paint. A 35.6 shooting percentage to 43.4 percent for UW-River Falls proved to be a difference as Simpson didn't get to the free throw line until the second half.

Haupt went 4 of 16 but hit three three-pointers on her way to a team high 16 points. Noreen Morrow added 10 points in her second-straight game with double-figures.

Whitney Van Wyk filled up the stat sheet before fouling out, scoring eight points while reeling in eight rebounds, dishing out three assists and swiping five steals.

UW-River Falls had four players in double-figures, spearheaded by Taylor Karge who scored 22 points on 8 of 14 shooting and a perfect 6 of 6 from the line. Richell Mehus was an efficient 9 of 12 from the line for 14 points.

Up Next:
Simpson finishes up at the Gustavus Adolphus Tip-Off when it takes on UW-Stout at 1 p.m.