Three players scored in double figures as the Central College women’s basketball team defeated Northland College (Wis.) 91-32 Friday, while the Dutch men’s squad saw a four-point halftime lead evaporate in a 78-60 season opening loss to #12 St. John’s University (Minn.).

In the opener, Abby Johnson and Bailey Reding each scored 14 points to lead all scorers. Johnson shot 6-11 from the field, while adding three rebounds and an assist. Reding shot 4-6 from the field, collected four rebounds and dished out three assists. Samantha Scott scored 12 points and collected four assists on 4-8 shooting from three-point land. The Dutch (3-1) shot 40% from the field, 23.3% from behind the three-point line, and 75% from the free throw line. The Central defense held Northland (0-1) to 23.1% from the field and 20% from three. 

For the Dutch men, Joshua Van Gorp led all scorers with 29 points and earned a double-double with 11 rebounds. Kaleb Brand scored six points while also having three assists and added a steal. Taylor Birks came off the bench and led the team with four assists and added two points in his 20 minutes. Grant Uecker came off the bench in his first collegiate game and scored 7 points on 3-7 shooting. Owen Schipper scored two points in his first game playing 31 minutes. As a team, the Dutch shot 40% from the field.

Both Central basketball teams are back in action today, with the women hosting the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire at 1 pm and the men hosting Augsburg University (Minn.) at 3 pm.