MINNEAPOLIS -- Augsburg University fell to Saint Mary's University 88-43 in a Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference women's basketball game on Wednesday at Si Melby Hall. The Auggies struggled with 31 turnovers, resulting in 47 points for the Cardinals, and were outscored 56-22 in the paint. The Cardinals, receiving votes in the D3hoops.com Division III national poll, also capitalized on fast breaks, adding 32 points in transition to secure the win.

THE BASICS
FINAL SCORE: Saint Mary's 88, Augsburg 43
LOCATION: Si Melby Hall, Minneapolis
RECORDS: Augsburg 5-17 overall (2-13 MIAC), Saint Mary's 18-4 overall (12-3 MIAC)

GAME RECAP
The Auggies struggled to maintain momentum in the first quarter, committing eight turnovers, which allowed Saint Mary's to capitalize and build a significant lead. Augsburg managed to score four points in the paint and four from the free-throw line, but the Cardinals ended the first quarter ahead 26-10. Augsburg's performance in the second quarter was highlighted by Wakinyela Bear's three-pointer assisted by Saylor Gallagher at 8:53, providing a brief surge in scoring. Bear, who scored in double figures for the ninth time this season and fifth time in her last seven games, was a bright spot for the Auggies, scoring 10 points. However, the Auggies struggled against the Cardinals' effective offense, which capitalized on turnovers and fast breaks, resulting in a challenging stretch. Despite late baskets by Lani Fonoti and Jada Stanford, Augsburg finished the first half trailing 47-23.

Augsburg faced a challenging third quarter, struggling to control possession with 11 turnovers, as Saint Mary's outscored Augsburg 31-10. Despite opening with a jumper from Maecee Alexander at 6:36 and a late layup by Macaria Person at 1:11, the Auggies could not overcome Saint Mary's scoring surge. The visitors showcased their offensive efficiency, shooting 11-of-14 from the field, including two three-pointers. The Cardinals capitalized on fast breaks and points in the paint, extending their lead through efficient shooting.

Augsburg's fourth quarter was highlighted by a strong start with Macaria Person hitting a three-pointer at 9:43, assisted by Tyliah Frazier. Bear contributed significantly with a fast-break layup at 7:41, followed by a three-pointer at 7:08, both assisted by Alexiah LaRose. Despite these efforts, the Auggies were edged out in the quarter, scoring 10 points to the Cardinals' 11.

AUGSBURG PLAYER HIGHLIGHTS
• Wakinyela Bear: 10 points, 2 steals, 2 rebounds  
• Jada Stanford: 6 points, 5 rebounds  
• Lani Fonoti: 6 points, 3 assists  

SAINT MARY'S PLAYER HIGHLIGHTS
• Ayla Olson: 18 points, 5 steals, 3 assists   UP NEXT
• Looking ahead, Augsburg will face St. Olaf College on Saturday, Feb. 14. The game is set for 1 p.m. at the Skoglund Center in Northfield, Minn.