ROCK ISLAND, Ill. - #20 Carroll women's basketball earned a hard-fought road win Saturday afternoon, knocking off Augustana 75–71 behind a balanced offensive performance and a dominant second quarter that gave the Pioneers the separation they needed.

Carroll and Augustana played even through the opening 10 minutes at 18–18, but the Pioneers took control in the second quarter with a 24–18 advantage, fueled by timely three-point shooting and a 7–0 run late in the half. Carroll led 42–36 at the break and pushed the margin as high as 13 midway through the third, holding a 60–53 lead entering the fourth.

Augustana made a late push, cutting the deficit to 73–71 on a Jazmeriah Jones three in the final :15, but Natalie Gricius sealed the win with two free throws with nine seconds left.

Emilie Wizner led Carroll with 23 points, knocking down four threes while adding five rebounds. Gricius posted 14 points and nine boards, and Ryann Wendt added 10 points, including a pair of big third-quarter threes. Katie Barger chipped in six points and six assists while helping Carroll to a 17–16 turnover advantage and 14 fast-break points.

Carroll finished 25-for-61 (41%) from the field, 9-for-25 (36%) from three, and an outstanding 16-for-17 (94%) at the line. The Pioneers also won the points-in-the-paint battle 24–18 and held a 35–28 rebounding edge.

Augustana (8–8, 3–4 CCIW) was led by Tia Lewis with 17 points and Jazmeriah Jones with 15. The Vikings shot 50% from the floor but couldn't overcome Carroll's extra possessions and efficiency at the line.

#20 Carroll improves to 12–4 overall and 6–1 in the CCIW, maintaining momentum heading into next week's conference slate as they return home to Van Male Fieldhouse to take on North Park on Wednesday with tip scheduled for 7pm.