With a hard fought win over St. Benedict’s and a composed victory over Bethel, the Gustavus women’s basketball team retained their hold of first place in the MIAC. With an impressive record of 9-1 in division and 11-2 overall, the Gusties have consistently outplayed their opponents.

At Bethel last Saturday, the Gusties played a tight game against the Royals. Back and forth play left Gustavus trailing at intermission 24-22.

The Gusties struggled from behind the arc, hitting only 1 of 10 in the first half. Solid play on both ends of the court from Junior Molly Mathiowetz and Sophomore Molly Geske led the Gusties through eight lead changes in the second half. Mathiowetz finished with 18 points, and Geske with 15 after shooting 6 for 6 free throws in the closing minutes. The game closed with the Gusties up 60-53.

Playing at home against the St. Benedict’s Blazers, the Gusties jumped out to a 10-0 lead and held on for a tight 66-63 win. Senior Captain Brianna Radtke led all scorers with 18, followed by another 15 point game from Geske.

Mathiowetz earned herself the Co-MIAC Women’s Basketball Athlete of the Week distinction for the week of Jan. 11 against opponents St. Thomas and Bethel. A team leading 22 points against St. Thomas followed by her 18 point night against Bethel gave Mathiowetz a 20 ppg average. On defense, Mathiowetz recorded 10 steals through the two games, one a game high six steals against Bethel.

Gustavus holds first place in the MIAC with a 10-1 record, tying the program’s best ever start. The team will travel to Concordia Jan. 23 for its next conference matchup.