OTTAWA, Kan. — The Ottawa University women's basketball team continued its strong start to the season with a commanding 85–63 victory over Graceland University on Wednesday night in Wilson Field House. The Braves improved to 3–0 behind standout performances from Clare Williams and McKinley Kruger, who combined for 42 points and 17 rebounds.

First Quarter
Ottawa came out firing, jumping to an early lead behind efficient shooting from Williams and Ashlynn Arnsman. The Braves took a 22–18 edge after the first 10 minutes, with Williams connecting on two three-pointers and Kruger controlling the glass inside.

Second Quarter
Both teams traded baskets early in the second frame before Ottawa used defensive pressure to build on its advantage. Dominique Schutte knocked down a three from the wing, and Kruger added a pair of free throws to help Ottawa outscore Graceland 15–13 in the quarter and carry a 37–31 lead into halftime.

Third Quarter
Graceland made a brief push coming out of the break, cutting the deficit to four, but Ottawa responded with a 12–2 run highlighted by back-to-back buckets from Arnsman and a transition three from Williams. Kruger continued to dominate the boards, recording her double-double by the end of the third as the Braves extended their lead to 60–50 heading into the final period.

Fourth Quarter
Ottawa put the game away with a strong offensive surge in the fourth, outscoring the Yellowjackets 25–13. Williams scored nine points in the quarter, while the Braves' defense forced multiple turnovers that turned into fast-break opportunities. Miranda Patterson and Schutte helped distribute the ball effectively, combining for eight assists on the night.

Ottawa Leaders

• Clare Williams: 23 points (8-11 FG, 4-7 3FG), 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 block, 1 steal
• McKinley Kruger: 19 points (6-12 FG), 11 rebounds, 3 assists, 4 steals
• Ashlynn Arnsman: 16 points (7-13 FG), 6 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 blocks, 1 steal
• Dominique Schutte: 7 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists
• Miranda Patterson: 6 points, 5 assists, 3 rebounds

Team Statistics

Category	Ottawa	Graceland
Field Goals	30-65 (46.2%)	24-68 (35.3%)
3-Point FG	8-29 (27.6%)	7-32 (21.9%)
Free Throws	17-24 (70.8%)	8-19 (42.1%)
Rebounds	41	46
Assists	19	12
Turnovers	14	21

Ottawa's balance and efficiency proved too much for Graceland to handle, as the Braves held the Yellowjackets to 35 percent shooting and forced 21 turnovers.

Who is Next
Ottawa (3-0) opens KCAC play on Saturday, Nov. 15 in Salina, Kan. against Kansas Wesleyan University. Game time is set for 6:00 p.m.