Kirkwood Cruises Past Ellsworth to Open ICCAC Play

Cedar Rapids, IA- 

The #2 Kirkwood Women's Basketball Team delivered a powerful statement to begin ICCAC play, defeating the Ellsworth Panthers 65–39 inside Johnson Hall. The Eagles controlled the tempo from the opening tip, using smothering defense and balanced scoring to improve to 6–0 on the season and 1–0 in conference action.

Fast Start Sets the Tone

Kirkwood wasted no time establishing momentum, racing out to a 16–3 lead after the first quarter. Their defensive pressure immediately disrupted Ellsworth's rhythm—holding the Panthers to just 1-of-14 shooting in the opening frame—and Kirkwood never looked back.

Behind crisp ball movement and relentless attacking in the lane, the Eagles piled up 44 points in the paint and forced 29 Panther turnovers, converting those mistakes into 30 points on the other end.

Riley Dominates Inside

Sophomore forward Aaliyah Riley delivered one of her most efficient performances of the young season. She finished with 15 points on 7-of-8 shooting, adding 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals while controlling the interior throughout the game. Her ability to finish inside and rebound in traffic gave Kirkwood a steady anchor.

Wren Leads the Backcourt Charge

Guard Olivia Wren was everywhere. She scored 14 points, dished out 4 assists, and collected 3 steals, pushing the pace and keeping Ellsworth off balance. Her defensive pressure sparked multiple transition opportunities that blew the game open in the second half.

Depth Shines Again

Kirkwood's bench continued to be a strength, contributing 26 points on a night when every Eagle brought energy.

• Madison Stowater knocked down two threes and finished with 8 points and 5 rebounds.

• Molly Roling added 6 points, 4 boards, and 2 assists.

• Freshman guard Bra'Ja Torry was perfect from the field, adding 4 points and a pair of steals.

The balanced attack ensured Ellsworth could never key in on any single scorer.

Defensive Identity Continues to Shine

Kirkwood's defensive discipline overwhelmed Ellsworth from start to finish. The Eagles held the Panthers to just 27.3% shooting and 10.7% from three, then closed the door in the fourth quarter by allowing only six points.

Up Next: A Major ICCAC Road Test

The Eagles now turn their attention to one of the most important early-season conference matchups of the year: a trip to Mason City to take on the #12 NIACC Trojans on December 3rd at 5:30 PM.