The Collegio Pittsburg's student voice since 1916
Curtis Meyer reporter
The Pitt State women’s basketball team came away with a pair of wins last week, giving them a four-game winning streak. The offense has been red hot, having scored 77 points or more in each of their four wins.
The week started with a trip to face the University of Central Oklahoma Bronchos, as the Gorillas claimed a 77-57 win. It was a solid day all around for Pitt State, as they rode a strong first half to control the game.
Junior guard Grace Pyle led Pitt State with 23 points, seven rebounds and five assists on five of seven shooting from deep. It was also a big night for junior center Karrena Gerber, as she totaled 20 points, four rebounds, and two blocks. More importantly for her career, Gerber hit the 1,000-point mark, becoming just the 25th Gorilla to do so. Junior guard Jenna Shipley and sophomore forward Alba Lozano Davila each chipped in seven points to round out the scoring.
Following the strong game, the Gorillas faced the Newman Jets. It was another win for the Gorillas, as they cruised to an 83-48 victory. The Jets were outclassed in the loss, as the Gorillas scored more points in the first quarter with 20 than the Jets did in the entire first half. Head coach Amanda Davied gave some bench players more minutes, resting starters for most of the game.
Pyle led the team in points again, scoring 16 points and adding seven rebounds in just 14 minutes of game time. Sophomore forward Savannah Campbell came in a close second with 15 points and 11 rebounds, good for her first career double-double effort. Gerber added 14 points, 10 rebounds, and a team high four assists in the win.
The Gorillas now sit at 16-5 overall, going 10-5 in conference play. With a four-game streak, Pitt State has reached the top ten in the Central Region NCAA Division II rankings. While still outside the top 25 coaches’ poll, there is a good chance the Gorillas could find their way back into the mix if their strong play continues.
With just seven games left in the season, Pitt State has a month left of basketball before they need to prepare for the postseason. The Gorillas will need their strong play to continue as they look to make the NCAA Central Regional championship for a second straight year.
Pitt State will look to continue their recent success this next week as they prepare to face the University of Central Missouri Mules on Wednesday at home, before pivoting to host the Lincoln University Blue Tigers on the following Saturday.