#18 Ferris State Pulls Away For Big Road Win In Downtown Chicago

Postgame Interview 

CHICAGO — The Ferris State University (19-4, 12-2 GLIAC) women's basketball squad defeated Roosevelt University (6-15, 5-9 GLIAC), 81-53, on Monday (Feb. 9) night at the Goodman Center in Chicago, powered by a strong defensive performance with 10 blocks and 11 steals.

The Bulldogs capitalized on turnovers, scoring 24 points off Roosevelt's mistakes. This victory marked the sixth consecutive game in which Ferris State scored at least 81 total points, showcasing their offensive consistency.

The first quarter began with both teams exchanging early baskets, leading to a 2-2 tie. FSU gained momentum as Mya Hiram scored eight consecutive points, including a three-pointer at 7:37, helping them build a 10-4 lead. The Lakers responded with layups from Isabella Pitta and Marie Outlay, but the Bulldogs maintained their edge with efficient scoring inside the paint. Mia Riley's fastbreak layup at 3:16 extended their lead to 16-8. In the closing seconds, Emma Schierbeek hit a three-pointer to secure a 21-15 advantage for the Bulldogs at the end of the quarter.

The Bulldogs extended their lead with a dominant second-quarter performance, outscoring Roosevelt 20-8. Claire Erickson initiated the scoring with a three-pointer at 8:40, assisted by Kadyn Blanchard. Blanchard contributed significantly with a three-pointer at 7:17, followed by a fast-break three-pointer from Schierbeek, increasing their lead to 32-20 at 4:03. Charlotte Miller added another three-pointer at 1:49, assisted by Schierbeek, and FSU closed the quarter with a free throw by Elle Irwin to make it 41-23.

Ferris State dominated the third quarter, outscoring Roosevelt 16-8. The period saw Irwin contribute significantly with two consecutive layups, the first at 5:46 with an assist from Blanchard. Grace Lyons also added to the scoring with a three-pointer at 4:47, assisted by Ally Schultz. Defensively, the Bulldogs maintained pressure with three blocks, including a notable one by Alyssa Wirth in the final minute. This contributed to their season-high of 10 blocks in the game. Despite the Lakers' efforts, including a pair of three-pointers by Kelly Boyle, the Bulldogs held a commanding lead at the end of the quarter.

In the final quarter, the Bulldogs maintained their lead with efficient shooting, going 10-of-18 from the field. Miller scored early with a three-pointer at 9:45, increasing their advantage to 60-31. Outlay responded for the Lakers with a jumper, but the Bulldogs continued to widen the gap with contributions from Blanchard, who hit a three-pointer at 8:03. Riley further extended the lead with a three-pointer at 4:35, assisted by Melena Glysch. Despite the Lakers' efforts, including a late three-pointer from Outlay, the Bulldogs secured a decisive victory, finishing the quarter with a 24-22 edge.

Blanchard scored 17 points and collected eight rebounds, including three 3-pointers. Hiram recorded a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds, while adding three blocks. Schierbeek contributed 15 points, making three of eight attempts from beyond the arc. Irwin posted four assists and two blocks.

Outlay led Roosevelt with 21 points, hitting 8 of 19 from the field, including two 3-pointers. She also contributed defensively with two blocks and three steals while collecting eight rebounds. Isabel Lindo facilitated the offense with five assists, adding three rebounds. Aubrey Leonard was active on defense with three steals, scoring eight points and grabbing one rebound.

The Bulldogs improved to 19-4 overall and 12-2 in the GLIAC with the victory.

FSU will be back in action on Saturday (Feb. 14) at Saginaw Valley State with tipoff set for 1 p.m. (ET) in University Center, Mich.