The Drake women’s basketball team defeated Illinois State 79-74 on Friday at the Knapp Center to complete a regular-season sweep of the Redbirds.
Drake improved to 14-8 overall and 8-3 Missouri Valley Conference. Illinois State also is 14-8 and 8-3.
“Very thrilling game … going into those timeouts down the stretch, we loved the vibe of our team,” Drake coach Allison Pohlman said. “To win by 30 is really nice, but these sorts of games force the character of our women come out. As a coach, I find a lot of pride in that support within our team. This is a really good Illinois State team that we just beat, just so proud of our determination.”
Katie Dinnebier recorded her fifth double-double of the season, and 11th of her career, with 19 points and a game-high 11 assists. It marked the fifth game this season Dinnebier had reached double figures in assists. Dinnebier now has 699 career assists. She scored 13 points in the fourth quarter, including eight straight points in a 2:12 stretch.
Anna Miller enjoyed her eighth double-double of season, the 32nd of her career, with 18 points and game-high 13 rebounds. Abbie Aalsma added 14 points, making three 3-point baskets. It marked the eighth time this season she has made three-plus 3-point baskets in a game.
Ava Hawthorne chipped in with 11 points including a perfect 6-for-6 night at the free-throw line. Courtney Becker collected 12 rebounds for her seventh double-figure rebounding game of the season.
Drake will conclude Des Moines’ Hometown Team Weekend on Sunday with a date versus Bradley. The rematch of Bulldogs and Braves will tip off at 2 p.m. in the Knapp Center.
The Drake sports information department contributed this report.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Drake women beat Illinois State to complete regular-season sweep
