PLATTEVILLE, Wis. – The UW-Stout women's basketball team battled through a back-and-forth WIAC opener Friday afternoon, but UW-Platteville used timely runs in the third and fourth quarters to pull away for an 82–69 win at Williams Fieldhouse.
The Blue Devils (9-3, 0-1 WIAC) weathered an early storm after the Pioneers opened the game shooting efficiently and built a 23–11 first-quarter advantage. Despite the slow start, UW-Stout responded with improved ball movement and perimeter shooting in the second quarter.
Grace Schisel sparked the rally, attacking the lane and getting to the free-throw line, while Addy Verhagen and Rosella Wille knocked down key three-pointers to bring Stout within two possessions late in the half. The Blue Devils trimmed a double-digit gap to just 33–31 at the break, swinging momentum heading into halftime.
The teams traded baskets in the third quarter as UW-Stout continued to chip away. Mary Berg tied the game early with a pair of free throws, and Stout briefly matched Platteville shot-for-shot. However, a 7–0 Pioneer run midway through the quarter — fueled by second-chance points and transition opportunities — gave Platteville breathing room it would not relinquish.
UW-Stout continued to answer. Julia Rybacki came up with a key block and bucket, and Brooklynn Birt finished inside to keep the Blue Devils within striking distance. Still, Platteville's efficiency in the lane helped push the margin back to double digits late in the third.
In the fourth quarter, the Blue Devils made one final push. Eleice Dahl drained a three to cut the deficit to three with just over four minutes remaining, igniting the Stout bench. Platteville answered immediately, converting at the free-throw line and finishing at the rim to halt the comeback attempt.
Grace Schisel led UW-Stout with a game-high 21 points, while Addy Verhagen added 14 points. Rosella Wille chipped in eight points and eight rebounds.
By the Numbers
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21 – Points scored by Grace Schisel to lead all players
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39 – UW-Stout bench points
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17-20 – Blue Devils from the free-throw line (85%)
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40% – UW-Stout shooting from both the field and three-point range
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29 – Team rebounds
Up Next
UW-Stout returns to the road on Wednesday, traveling to UW-River Falls for a 7 p.m. WIAC matchup.
