ARDEN HILLS, Minn.—Bethel University's women's basketball team was eager to return to the Robertson Center for Wednesday evening's affair against Augsburg University after playing just one home game in the first 12 contests of the 2017-18 season. The Royals (9-4, 4-2 MIAC) showcased their appreciation by shooting 63.5 percent from the floor and 66.7 percent from downtown, which led to a 96-64 rout over the Auggies.
 
BU got out to a blazing-hot start, outscoring Augsburg 32-17 in the opening quarter. The Royals swiped four steals and made 7-of-9 3-pointers—thanks in large part to Abby Miller and Hannah Simpson who were a combined 5-of-5—in the first 10 minutes. Bethel took a minor step back in the second frame, allowing the Auggies to outscore them 15-21, before out-scoring their opponents 25-13 and 24-13 in the third and fourth quarters, respectively.


 
Eight players scored six or more points and four finished with 13 or above. Abby Miller ended the night 8-of-10 from the floor and 5-of-7 from downtown for a game-high 21 points, two assists, and two steals. Fellow senior guard Angie Kirchoff was right behind with 16 points, five assists, three rebounds, and two blocks.
 
Hannah Johnson earned her sixth double-double of the season with 13 points, 16 rebounds, and two blocks, while Taite Anderson recorded 13 points, six boards, and two blocks. Hannah Simpson added nine points and three rebounds and Maria Vavra tallied seven points and two boards.
 
Not only did Bethel shoot well, but they also rebounded and defended well. BU out-rebounded Augsburg 39-23 and held the Auggies to 39.4 percent shooting (2-of-11 from outside the arc).
 
The Royals return to action with a conference clash against nationally-ranked Gustavus Adolphus College on Saturday, January 13. BU and the Golden Gusties are scheduled to tipoff at 3 p.m., approximately 30 minutes after the completion of the men's game that starts at 1 p.m.