The Webster University women's basketball team took a non-conference breather as the Gorloks defeated Finlandia University, 97-68, on December 5 at Grant Gymnasium.  Webster took control early and, after a Finlandia run pulled it within striking distance, the Gorloks' pressure defense helped them run away with the contest.

A Jade Sawyer (SO, Republic, MO/Republic) three-pointer put Webster on top 3-0 in the opening moments of the game.  A three-pointer and a pair of jumpers by Megan Brandt (SR, Sullivan, MO/Sullivan) helped Webster take an 18-5 lead.  Finlandia would cut the deficit to 20-15 with a 10-2 run and Webster had a 24-19 lead at the end of the period.

An 8-0 run propelled Webster to a 32-19 lead to start the second period.  Once again Brandt was at center of the run with a pair of baskets.  Kylie Shoot (FR, Ashland, MO/Southern Boone had back to back three-pointers to help Webster extend its lead to 45-27.  A three-pointer by Kelsey Miller (SR, Elizabeth, IN/South Central) at the buzzer sent Webster into the locker room with a 54-32 lead.

Webster shot 7-13 (53.8%) from beyond the arc in the half and 19-49 (38.8%) overall.  The Gorloks forced 17 Lion turnovers in the half and had 12 steals.  Brandt had a team-high 13 points for the half. 

The Gorloks went deep in the third period as they hit seven three-pointers, including three by Miller, who was 3-4 for the period, and Natalie Busscher (JR, Mundelein, IL/Mundelein) had two as well.  The Gorloks upped their forced turnover total to 27 with 10 in the period, as they added nine more steals while taking an 86-46 lead.

Webster would cruise to a 97-68 final.  The 97 points was the fifth highest single game total in team history.  The Gorloks wound up with 22 steals on 30 forced turnovers.  The Gorloks finished a sizzling 16-28 (57.1%) from the three-point line.

Miller tied for the team lead in points with 15, and had team highs in steals (7), assists (7), and rebounds (6).  Brandt had 15 points and Sawyer finished with 14.  Bussscher also finished in double figures with 11.

Webster is 3-2 on the season and will resume 'The Battle of Big Bend' when Fontbonne University comes to Grant on December 9.  The game has been selected as the SLIAC 'Game of the Week'.