DULUTH, Minn. – The University of Jamestown women’s basketball team faced a tough challenge against Minnesota Duluth, losing 83-52 at Romano Gymnasium. The Bulldogs (17-6, 15-4 NSIC) dominated, hitting 12 three-pointers and forcing Jamestown into 22 turnovers.
The game started with UMD exploding for 28 points in the first quarter, quickly establishing a big lead. Jamestown regrouped in the second quarter, outscoring Duluth 16-12 and narrowing the gap before halftime. However, the Bulldogs regained control after the break, outscoring Jamestown 26-10 in the third quarter, effectively putting the game out of reach.
Standout Performers:
Allie Berns shone for Jamestown, scoring 16 points with six rebounds and two blocks. Haidyn Crockett added 10 points and two steals, while Hali Savela chipped in six points, including two successful three-pointers.
For Minnesota Duluth, Myra Moorjani led all scorers with 21 points, sinking four three-pointers. Claire Bjorge had a well-rounded game with 18 points, six assists, and an impressive seven steals.
Game Statistics:
The Jimmies shot 38.9% (21-of-54) from the field and 46.7% (7-of-15) from three-point range. In contrast, UMD shot 48.5% and made 12-of-32 attempts from deep. Jamestown’s high turnover count cost them, leading to 26 points for Duluth, while the Bulldogs only turned the ball over 12 times. UMD also edged out Jamestown on rebounds, 35 to 31.
Looking Ahead:
The Jimmies are set to play Bemidji State on Saturday, February 14, at 1 p.m. This matchup offers a chance for Jamestown to bounce back and improve upon their recent struggles.
Insights and Trends
Women’s basketball, including college teams, has become increasingly competitive. A 2022 NCAA report showed that women’s sports viewership has significantly increased by 65% over the last decade, with more fans tuning in to watch games. Experts believe this rise is partly due to more media coverage and the visibility of female athletes.
Social media buzz also underscores this trend. Hashtags like #WomensBasketball and #NCAAWomen are trending, reflecting the growing community and support for women athletes. According to a recent survey by the NCAA, over 60% of fans expressed a desire for more coverage and exposure of women’s games.
As the season progresses, teams like Jamestown will feel the effects of increased scrutiny and expectations. The performance against Duluth highlights the need for better ball security and consistency to compete effectively. With upcoming games, players and coaches alike must adapt and strategize to build on their experience and improve further.
