In a spectacular home opener at the Nutter Center on Tuesday, the Wright State women's basketball team secured a resounding 88-64 victory against Mount Vernon Nazarene.
The Raiders showcased a balanced offensive performance with four players reaching double figures. Kacee Baumhower led the charge, delivering an outstanding performance with 19 points and five rebounds. Lauren Scott notched a career-high 17 points, shooting an impressive 6-of-8 from the field, while also contributing four rebounds, two steals, and a block. Alexis Hutchison displayed versatility, stuffing the stat sheet with 16 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two blocks. Additionally, Cara VanKempen chipped in with 10 points on 3-of-5 shooting.
Wright State exhibited its best shooting display of the early season, boasting a 50.8% success rate from the field (30-of-59), a 45.5% accuracy on 3-pointers (10-of-22), and a stellar 90% from the free-throw line (18-of-20).
The Raiders dominated various statistical categories, outclassing MVNU (Mount Vernon Nazarene University) in bench points (37-21), fastbreak points (17-4), and points in the paint (37-34). With 17 assists on 30 made baskets, the team showcased excellent ball movement and teamwork. Defensively, Wright State recorded seven steals and four blocks, capitalizing on 16 turnovers by the Cougars to secure 21 points.
Despite facing an early 7-0 deficit, Wright State rallied and closed the first quarter with a score of 18-15. Baumhower's seven points in the opening period played a crucial role in keeping the Raiders within reach. The team's resilience showed in the second quarter, outscoring Mount Vernon Nazarene 25-12 and heading into halftime with a 40-30 lead. A remarkable 16-0 run at the start of the quarter, coupled with a 76.9% shooting accuracy, allowed the Raiders to take control. Baumhower continued her offensive prowess, adding eight points in the quarter.
Although the Cougars narrowed the gap to 46-38 in the third quarter, Wright State responded with an 11-2 run, extending their lead to 57-40. The Raiders finished the quarter with a 61-49 advantage.
In the final period, Wright State sealed the game with a commanding 27-15 scoring edge. The team went 12-for-13 at the free-throw line, and Scott contributed eight of her 17 points in the quarter.
Looking ahead, Wright State will hit the road to face Indiana State on Saturday, November 18, with the game scheduled to start at 2 p.m. ET and stream on ESPN+.
