Grace tastes first defeat at No. 3 Marian

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Grace’s women’s basketball team dropped its first game of the year 91-51 at No. 3 Marian.

The Lady Lancers were playing just their third game of the year; it was the first time on the court for Grace in nearly a month (Oct. 28).

Kyannah Stull was a bright spot offensively for the Lady Lancers (2-1, 0-1 Crossroads League). She scored 21 points to go along with eight rebounds, drilling four 3-pointers.

Grace struggled to score against the defense of the Knights (6-2, 2-0 CL). The Lady Lancers shot 31 percent from the floor while turning the ball over 28 times.

The first quarter was Grace’s best offensively, shooting 47 percent from the floor. But the Lady Lancers lost the ball five times and gave up nine offensive rebounds, falling behind 25-16.

The Knights quickly opened up a double-digit lead in the second quarter and pulled ahead 48-33 by halftime.

During the second half, Grace’s shooting touch disappeared. The Lady Lancers only made four field goals in the second half, including a 1 for 10 shooting performance in the fourth quarter.

Grace was muted to six points in the third quarter. In the fourth quarter, Grace got to the foul line and made nine free throws.

Maddie Ryman scored 11 points off the bench, shooting 4 of 5 from the floor.

Kiersten Poor had seven points and five rebounds, and Kaylie Warble had two points and nine boards. Sarah O’Day nabbed three steals, and Kiara Gill scored four points.

“It’s a tough game after not playing in 28 days and having three practices to get ready. Give Marian credit. They came out and showed who they are as the No. 3 team in the nation,” said Grace head coach Dan Davis. “We were out of sync on offense and defense. But I’m thankful we are back and playing. We will learn from it and improve quickly from the tape. We are ready to get back on the court and play. We are excited about this team and this season.”

The Lady Lancers’ next game is Monday at IU Kokomo. Grace’s home opener is set for Dec. 5 against Bethel.