MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- The North Central University (NCU) women's basketball team was ready to get their first win in the new year against Luther College (LC). In a firework display of incredible offensive synergy by the blue and gold, the home court advantage helped the Rams route the Norse by a final score of 82-47.

Game Recap

Fresh off a two game losing streak, the Rams buckled down to face the Norse in a non-conference matchup eager to get back into the win column. Emily DiGiorgio (Ironwood, MI, Luther L. Wright High School) provided the initial spark for NCU, scoring the first five points of the contest. LC managed to stay with NCU in the first quarter due to nine offensive rebounds that translated into lots of second chance points, but the Rams regrouped in the second quarter only allowing the Norse to obtain two offensive boards and score three points in the second quarter, stretching their lead to 29 come halftime.

Yet, the Rams didn't let up. Lead by constant pressure on the defensive end, NCU cushioned their lead with points in the paint and strong shooting from downtown. The Rams as a team shot a highly efficient 50% from the three-point line. Individually, DiGiorgio shot 100% from the arc along with Kadija Conteh (London, UK, City of London Academy) at a respectable 66%. Both Jocelyn Talso (Ramsey, MN, Spring Lake Park High School) and Joelle Talso (Ramsey, MN, Spring Lake Park High School) shot 50% to chip in on the Rams' parade from deep. The team strong defensive mentality of NCU shined brightly, as they tallied 13 total assists and managed to get three players in double-digit scoring.

Key Performers

• Emily DiGiorgio had yet another strong performance with 23 points and six rebounds.
• Coming off a hot game, Naomi Hagstrom (Zimmerman, MN, Zimmerman High School) continued to show her talent with 18 points and five rebounds.
• Kadija Conteh provided the Rams with an all-around statline of 18 points, seven assists, three rebounds, and two steals.
• Joelle Talso  came up huge for NCU on the glass by bringing down a team-high of 11 total while also adding in nine points, three assists, and three steals.

Looking Ahead

The Rams hope to continue this momentum into their game next Wednesday, where they clash on their home court with Simpson College at 6:00 pm. A reminder to all fans that only essential game personnel will be permitted to be in attendance in accordance with the Minnesota Health Department and COVID-19 restrictions. NCU athletics encourages fans to stay tuned to the official NCU Rams Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, as the fan attendance situation at any home events will be continued to be monitored.