Graceland Women's Basketball Rallies Past Culver-Stockton for Conference Victory

LAMONI, Iowa – The Graceland University women's basketball team staged a resilient fourth-quarter comeback to defeat Culver-Stockton College 62-55 on Wednesday evening at the Morden Center. The Yellowjackets improve to 6-13 overall and 4-11 in Heart of America Athletic Conference (Heart) play, while the Wildcats drop to 10-8 overall and 7-7 in conference action.

Despite trailing through the first three quarters, Graceland found its stride in the fourth, outscoring Culver-Stockton 22-9. The Yellowjackets shot 52.9% in the final period, their best shooting quarter of the game, while limiting the Wildcats to just 30.8% from the field.

Senior guard Kymani Freeman led the offensive charge with 17 points on 7-of-14 shooting, including three crucial three-pointers. Avery Walker-Henry provided a spark off the bench with 11 points, converting 5-of-6 free throws. Forward Genesis Alarcon controlled the boards with a game-high 13 rebounds and added eight points and five assists.

Reflecting on the win, Graceland head coach Willie Scott acknowledged the team's slow start but praised their strong finish. "We fell asleep for the first three quarters and finally woke up in the fourth with energy and determination to pull it back together and win," Scott said. "We're still trying to figure it all out with our new players back for the second half of the season. I told them it's not how you start; it's how you finish the season. Hopefully, we can peak at the right time for a playoff spot. We beat a very good team tonight."

Culver-Stockton was paced by Avery Oetting, who finished with 16 points, including four three-pointers. Misora Nambara contributed five assists and five rebounds, while Katie Webb pulled down a team-high nine rebounds.

The Wildcats held the advantage for much of the contest, leading 16-14 after the first quarter and extending their lead to 33-28 at halftime. Graceland struggled offensively in the third, managing only 12 points, but their defensive pressure and clutch shooting in the final minutes secured the victory.

Graceland finished the game with a 34.4% field goal percentage, while Culver-Stockton shot an identical 34.4%. The Yellowjackets had a slight edge in rebounding, 38-35, and forced 15 turnovers, capitalizing with nine points off those mistakes.

Looking ahead, Graceland will have a quick turnaround as they prepare to host William Penn University this Saturday, January 25, at 12p.m. in the Morden Center.

For more information on Graceland women's basketball and all Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.