Sophomore center Ellie Bruce made a critical impact in the second half as the Hillsdale College women's basketball team held off host Lake Superior State in a hard-fought win on the road, 59-50 on Saturday.

Bruce had just two points in the first half while battling foul trouble, but scored 14 of the Chargers' 23 second half points, including 10 of Hillsdale's 15 fourth-quarter points, as Hillsdale turned a tight contest into a nine point victory late. 

Bruce's knockout blow in the paint proved to be what Hillsdale needed to put away a pesky Lakers squad who made life difficult for the Chargers defensively, as Hillsdale shot 34.8% from the floor and 27.8% from 3-point range in the contest.

While Hillsdale struggled to break down LSSU's defense, the Chargers were able to lean on their own defense to protect their lead. The Lakers shot just 31.6% from the floor and 22.7% from 3-point range themselves as Hillsdale locked down their squad in the half-court while giving up zero fast-break points to LSSU.

In a defensive battle, breakthrough offensive performances proved to be critical. Bruce led the way with 16 points and six rebounds, while Sarah Aleknavicius knocked down three 3-pointers and just missed a double-double with 12 points, nine rebounds and five assists to keep the Chargers ahead early on.

Annalise Pietrzyk added 10 points, seven rebounds, four assists and two steals for the Chargers, and Emma Ruhlman chipped in eight points, seven rebounds and three assists as well. Hillsdale continued an impressive early trend by assisting on 19 of their 23 made baskets, as sharp passing proved key to break down the Lakers' defense. The Chargers also scored 13 second chance points and 11 fast break points to give themselves the edge they needed.

Hillsdale is now 3-1 overall and has a big test coming up on Wednesday as the Chargers hit the road to take on Ferris State, currently ranked 24th in the nation in the most recent WBCA poll. One of the top teams in the region this year, the Bulldogs will provide a good early measuring stick for the Chargers heading into the Thanksgiving break.