The Pioneers dominated the first half but lost a 17-point lead in the second half in a 63-58 loss to #20 Columbia on Tuesday. The Pioneer defense was stellar in the first half, limiting Columbia to 29% shooting and 0 three-pointers as they took a 32-20 lead into halftime. MNU then increased their lead to 17 with a 7-2 run to start the second half. But a 21-7 run by the Cougars cut the Pioneer lead to just 3 with 9 minutes remaining. The Pioneers got the lead back to 7 with 7 minutes left, but Columbia went on a 9-0 run to take a lead they would not relinquish. The Cougars pushed the lead to 5 points in the final minutes and MNU could not recover. Columbia shot 47% in the second half, including 7-14 from beyond the arc. The Pioneers shot just 30% in the second half, including 4-12 from the free throw line.
Kristie Tiegreen had 13 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 steals.
Rachel Boan had 12 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. And
Daria Sprew recorded a double-double with 11 points and 13 rebounds.
The Pioneers are 6-6 (1-1 HAAC). The next game is Saturday at Central Methodist (3-6, 2-0) at 2:00 PM.
Box and Play by Play
