GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Davenport women's basketball (4-9, 2-3 GLIAC) led wire to wire in a 72-42 victory over Purdue University Northwest (3-10, 1-4 GLIAC) on Thursday evening at the DU Student Center. The Panthers' defense set the tone, forcing 22 turnovers and converting them into 27 points. It marked the second time this season DU has held an opponent to 42 points, the lowest total allowed by the program since joining the NCAA.

Davenport opened the game on an 8–2 run behind two early layups from Ellie Toney, establishing control from the opening tip. Nevaeh Williams added a defensive rebound and a transition layup to maintain momentum. PNW briefly closed the gap to one midway through the first quarter, but a late 3-pointer from Reese Polega and two free throws by Kayla Covington helped the Panthers take a 17–11 lead after one.

The Panthers extended their advantage in the second quarter as Williams knocked down a 3-pointer early, assisted by Maddie Geers. Davenport's defensive pressure intensified, highlighted by steals from Anna Axtell and Toney that led to additional scoring opportunities. Williams added another 3-pointer midway through the quarter, while Covington contributed inside to help DU head into halftime with a 34–22 lead.

Davenport continued to assert control after the break. Just nine seconds into the third quarter, Williams came up with a steal that led to a Toney layup. The Panthers stretched the lead to 19 following a 3-pointer from Hannah Schroeder, assisted by Tangee Gagau, and later capped the quarter with an Axtell triple. Davenport's defense limited the Pride to just one field goal in the period, taking a 48–28 advantage into the final quarter.

DU pulled away in the fourth, outscoring PNW 24–14. Axtell opened the scoring with another 3-pointer, and Williams added a layup and free throw during a decisive run. Davenport closed the game with sustained defensive pressure, forcing five more turnovers and allowing only 14 points in the quarter to secure the 72–42 victory.

Davenport Top Performers
Anna Axtell

• 17 points
• 3-for-3 from three-point range
• 4 steals

Nevaeh Williams

• 15 points
• 6 rebounds
• 3 steals

Ellie Toney

• 10 points
• 5 field goals

Reese Polega

• 2 blocks
• 2 steals