WAUKESHA, Wis. - Carroll women's basketball continued its strong run through CCIW play on Wednesday night, powering past North Central 74–63 behind a balanced offensive effort and timely second-half execution.

The Pioneers set the tone early, jumping out to a 21–10 first-quarter lead thanks to efficient scoring inside and a disruptive defensive presence that led to seven points off turnovers in the opening frame. Carroll maintained control through the second quarter and carried a 36–26 advantage into halftime.

North Central made pushes throughout the third, but Carroll answered each run, highlighted by key baskets from Natalie Gricius and Emilie Wizner to keep the margin intact. Up 51–44 after three, the Pios closed the door in the fourth, shooting 60% from the field and knocking down three triples to seal the double-digit win.

Gricius led the way with a game-high 29 points on 13–23 shooting while adding 8 rebounds. Wizner stuffed the stat sheet with 19 points, including four made threes, and Julia Lokker provided a crucial boost with 18 points, efficiently scoring at all levels. Ryann Wendt played a steady all-around game, contributing 5 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists.

Carroll finished shooting 44% from the floor and 6-of-21 from three, while holding the Cardinals to 41% overall. The Pioneers owned the paint with a 36–16 scoring advantage and collected 8 second-chance points on the night.

With the win, Carroll improves to 15–4 overall and 9–1 in the CCIW, remaining firmly in the hunt atop the conference standings.

The Pioneers return to action this weekend as they continue conference play at home against Wheaton, with tip scheduled for 2pm.