SIOUX CITY, IOWA – The 17th-ranked Grand View women's basketball team opened their season on the road in Sioux City, IA, facing off against Great Plains Athletic Conference powerhouse Morningside University. Despite a hard-fought effort, the Vikings were unable to take the lead, falling to the Mustangs 93-87 after a hot-shooting first half by Morningside set the tone for the game.

Both teams exchanged baskets early on, but Morningside leveraged their depth and second-chance opportunities, outscoring Grand View 20-10 in second-chance points and 59-45 in bench points. Although the Vikings battled back aggressively in the paint, scoring 30 points inside, Morningside held a steady lead through the third quarter. A late fast-break push by Grand View brought them within reach, but Morningside's composure in the final minutes secured their victory.

Ella Larsen led Grand View with an impressive all-around performance. In 29 minutes, she scored 23 points, shooting 8-of-12 from the field, including 2-of-5 from three, and was a perfect 5-for-5 at the free-throw line. Larsen also contributed five rebounds, seven assists, and four steals without committing a turnover. Anna Gossling followed with 15 points on 6-of-13 shooting, including three three-pointers, and added four steals of her own.

Morningside maintained the edge in rebounding with 37 boards, capitalizing on second-chance opportunities that ultimately helped them seal the 93-87 win.

UP NEXT
Grand View faces a quick turnaround as they head across town to the Knapp Center for an exhibition game against NCAA Division I program Drake University. The teams last met during the 2021-22 season, when Drake assistant coach Kelli Greenway was at the helm of the Vikings. Tip-off is set for 6:00 p.m., with a live radio broadcast available. Tickets for the game can be purchased [here].