MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.—The Bethel University women's basketball team cruised to a 72-50 road victory over Augsburg on Wednesday night. 

The Royals improve to 18-6, 13-4 MIAC, while the Auggies fall to 5-19, 2-15 MIAC. Bethel is tied for second place with Saint Mary's heading into their final game of the season on Saturday, February 21 against St.Catherine.

Bethel 72, Augsburg 50

The Royals' defense held the Auggies to .293 (17-of-58) shooting and .238 (5-of-21) from the three-point line. That included a dismal .133 (2-of-15) field goal percentage in the first quarter. Bethel's offense converted a .414 (24-of-58) field goal mark in the contest, as well as a .778 (21-of-27) figure from the charity stripe. Another highlight for Bethel was their 15-4 advantage in points off turnovers.

Emily Erickson had a double double 23 points, 12 rebounds and three steals for the Royals, followed by 17 points from Cally Peterson. Colette Duininck paced Bethel with eight assists, and added 10 points. Alli Born had a team-leading 14 rebounds to go with two steals, five points, and two assists.

Augsburg got nine points apiece from Wakinyela Bear and Jade Stanford.

The Royals will host St. Catherine at the Robertson Center for senior day on Saturday, February 21 at 1 p.m.