MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- The North Central University (NCU) women's basketball team put on a show in this highly anticipated Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) matchup against the University of Northwestern, St. Paul (UNW) Eagles on Friday night. A contest that saw fast-tempo offenses from both teams, North Central managed to hang onto the lead late down the stretch and edge the Eagles 70-66.

Game Recap

In a firework display of offensive shooting, both teams came out trading baskets and leads. Early on it was Jocelyn Talso (Ramsey, MN, Spring Lake Park High School) who got the Rams going offensively by knocking down a thee followed by a quick jumper off an Emily DiGiorgio screen. Halfway through the first quarter, NCU went on a quick 10-2 run, but UNW answered to keep within striking distance. The first half saw NCU holding the advantage in perimeter shooting with a total of seven in comparison to the Eagles' two. This gave the Rams the advantage early on to head into the locker rooms at halftime with a 35-30 lead.

After the first 20 minutes of play, the Rams came out and was firing on cylinders. NCU outscored UNW 21-9 in the third quarter as a result of an efficient 60% shooting from beyond the arc and holding the Eagles to single-digit scoring. Naomi Hagstrom (Zimmerman, MN, Zimmerman High School) was instrumental to North Central's offensive showing in the third as she netted several threes of her own. Emily DiGiorgio (Ironwood, MI, Luther L. Wright High School) had her way in the paint throughout the night by posting an overall 63% shooting percentage and holding UNW's post players to single-digit scoring nights. Northwestern managed to chip away at the Rams' lead throughout the final 10 minutes of play, but vital free throw shooting and defensive stops guided North Central down the stretch to come away with the victory.

As the Rams celebrated, Head Coach Paul Brunner expressed his emotions:

"I am so proud of this group. They continue to show up, work hard, buy in, and love each other. Tonight's result was a character win. OUr pregame message was centered on joy, love, enjoying every moment together. We had big time players make big time plays when it mattered most. I can't wait to see what this team can accomplish the rest of this season. Go Rams!"

Key Performers

• Emily DiGiorgio had one of the best performances of her career in a Rams uniform thus far. The Luther L. Wright product netted 31 points on a highly efficient 12-of-19 from the field.
• Naomi Hagstrom added in 17 points for the Rams, with 15 of those coming from long range.
• Jocelyn Talso and Kadija Conteh (London, UK, City of London Academy) both chipped in with 11 points apiece. 

Looking Ahead

The Rams will now enjoy some time off before continuing vital conference play. Next Thursday North Central will clash with the Northland College Lumberjills at 7:00 p.m. Reminder to all fans that only essential game personnel will be permitted in the gym in accordance with the Minnesota Department of Health and institutional COVID-19 restrictions. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned to the official social media feeds of the Rams including Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for any and all updates related to NCU women's basketball. Also, navigate to to ncurams.com/watch to enjoy the live video broadcast of the game.