The De Smet Bulldog defense locked down the Howard Tigers for much of the fourth quarter helping the Bulldogs to a 59-48 win on Tuesday, January 10th.
The two teams ended the first quarter in a 14-14 tie. De Smet pulled away a little in the second quarter, outscoring Howard 17-8. The Bulldogs led 31-22 at halftime. Howard cut into the lead, but only slightly, through the third quarter. De Smet still lead 45-38 heading into the final quarter. During fourth quarter the Bulldog defense only allowed one made basket until 1:45 left in the game. By that time the Bulldogs built a big enough lead for the win.
De Smet shot 45% (21-47) overall, 39% (9-23) from three-point area, and 50% (8-16) from the free-throw line. Howard shot 31% (17-54) from the field, 14% (3-21) from three-point area, and 50% (11-22) from the free-throw line.
Hazel Luethmers had 25 points and six rebounds. Jada Burke finished with 13 points, four rebounds, and two assists. Emma Albrecht added 12 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. Cori Birkel had six points, two rebounds, and two assists.
