MILWAUKEE, Wis. – The Truman State women's basketball team gained valuable experience Friday afternoon, facing Division I Marquette at the Al McGuire Center in an exhibition matchup. The Golden Eagles used their size and athleticism to secure an 86-43 victory, providing the Bulldogs with an opportunity to test themselves against Big East competition.
The exhibition offered Truman State a chance to compete against one of the nation's top Division I programs. Marquette jumped out to an early lead, taking an 18-12 advantage after the first quarter behind Skylar Forbes' efficient shooting. The Golden Eagles' pressure defense created challenges for the Bulldogs throughout the opening period.
Marquette extended its lead in the second quarter, using a strong defensive effort to build a 38-16 halftime advantage. Forbes continued her impressive performance with 17 first-half points, while Halle Vice contributed six as the Golden Eagles showcased their Division I talent.
The Bulldogs found their rhythm in the third quarter, with Mariann Blass providing an offensive spark off the bench. Blass knocked down three three-pointers during the period and scored 11 of her game-high 16 points, demonstrating Truman's ability to compete offensively. The Golden Eagles maintained their advantage behind Vice's 11 third-quarter points to take a 63-33 lead into the final period.
The fourth quarter saw Marquette pull away as the Golden Eagles shot 63.6% from the field, including an impressive 5-of-7 from three-point range. While the final score was lopsided, the experience of competing against high-level Division I competition proved invaluable for the Bulldogs' development.
For several Truman State players, the game held special significance as they had the opportunity to play in their home state of Wisconsin. The exhibition provided these student-athletes with a memorable experience competing in front of friends and family at a Division I venue.
Team Statistics Comparison
| Category |
Truman State |
Marquette |
| Field Goals |
15-62 (24.2%) |
30-58 (51.7%) |
| 3-Point FG |
7-26 (26.9%) |
12-28 (42.9%) |
| Free Throws |
6-8 (75.0%) |
14-14 (100.0%) |
| Rebounds |
25 |
50 |
| Assists |
8 |
26 |
| Turnovers |
14 |
18 |
| Steals |
8 |
9 |
| Blocks |
1 |
11 |
| Points in Paint |
16 |
30 |
| Fast Break Points |
13 |
17 |
| Bench Points |
26 |
20 |
| Points Off Turnovers |
10 |
19 |
Truman State Statistical Leaders
Scoring:
Rebounds:
Assists:
Steals:
Blocks:
Up Next:
The Bulldogs will return to GLVC play on the road against Lincoln on December 2nd at 5:30 PM.
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