Ferris State Rolls Past Purdue Northwest In Final Game Of Six-Game Homestand

Postgame Highlights & Interview 

BIG RAPIDS, Mich. — The nationally 21st-ranked Ferris State University women's basketball squad wrapped up a six-game homestand by rolling to a 100-52 win over visiting Purdue Northwest on Monday (Feb. 2) night inside Jim Wink Arena.

The Bulldogs tallied 22 steals and a posted a 62-20 advantage in points in the paint in the win. This victory marked a season high for the Bulldogs, as they achieved 100 total points in the game, setting a new benchmark for their offensive prowess.

Ferris State took an early lead with senior Emma Schierbeek scoring a fast-break layup just four seconds into the game, assisted by senior Kadyn Blanchard. Blanchard, who has now recorded at least 10 total points in 10 consecutive games, continued to impact the game, contributing two free throws at the 5:54 mark and a layup to extend the lead to 9-6. Senior Mya Hiram added to the momentum with a three-pointer and later a layup, pushing Ferris State to a 15-6 advantage. Purdue Northwest's Cameryn Phillips managed a late three-pointer, but FSU held a 21-14 lead at the end of the first quarter.

The Bulldogs dominated the second quarter, outscoring the Pride 31-6. Blanchard led with a strong defensive effort, recording a steal and converting it into a fast-break layup at 7:53. Senior Mia Riley added to the lead with a layup and a free throw at the 5:08 mark, contributing to the Bulldogs' commanding performance. PNW struggled to maintain possession, committing multiple turnovers, while Ferris State capitalized on their opportunities, extending their lead to 52-20 by the end of the quarter.

Ferris State maintained a strong lead in the third quarter against Purdue Northwest, ending the quarter with a 23-22 advantage for the period. Hiram contributed significantly with several key plays, including a layup at 9:01 and a jumper at 1:08. Sophomore Alyssa Wirth added to the Bulldogs' scoring with a three-pointer at 6:48 and a subsequent layup, achieving her season-high of 13 points along with a season-high total of six rebounds in the game. Riley was active on both ends with defensive rebounds and fast-break layups. The Pride's Alyssa Cole was notable for her efforts, scoring with a layup at 5:36 and converting an additional free throw, but Ferris State's consistent scoring kept the Bulldogs ahead.

FSU again dominated the fourth quarter against Purdue Northwest, securing a decisive 100-52 victory. Riley's three-pointer at 8:10 initiated the Bulldogs' scoring surge. Freshman Kenzie Garner further extended the lead with two three-pointers, achieving a season-high total of 8 points, contributing to Ferris State's 16 fast-break points. Wirth played a pivotal role, scoring the final layup with 39 seconds remaining, pushing the Bulldogs to the 100-point mark. Purdue Northwest managed just 10 points in the quarter, with Riley Milausnic adding a late three-pointer, but it was not enough to close the gap. Ferris State set a season high with 43 field goals made in the game, and continued their streak of at least seven three-point field goals made in nine consecutive games.

Ferris State also recorded a season high of 29 assists in the win, showcasing excellent teamwork.

Riley scored 17 points and collected seven steals, showcasing her ability to impact both ends of the court. Blanchard added 10 points, recorded six assists, and secured seven rebounds, contributing significantly to the team's playmaking. Hiram finished with 15 points and grabbed four rebounds, providing a strong offensive presence. Mara Mitchell tallied a season-high 13 points and dished out five assists, efficiently guiding the team's offensive efforts.

Cole led Purdue Northwest with 15 points, shooting 6-for-13 from the field and securing eight rebounds. Phillips contributed nine points, including two three-pointers, and added four assists along with two steals. Thaya Luse was active defensively, recording two steals and one assist.

The Bulldogs took over sole possession of second place in the league standings with the win, improving to 17-4 overall and 10-2 in conference play.

FSU will open a four-game road swing on Saturday (Feb. 7) with a 2 p.m. (ET) league tilt against the Parkside Rangers in Kenosha, Wis.

Game Notes:
- Ferris State achieved a season high of 100 total points in the game.
- FSU recorded a season high of 29 assists in the game.
- The Bulldogs set a season high with 43 field goals made in the game.
- Ferris State continued a streak of at least seven three-point field goals made in nine consecutive games.