The #12 Charger women's basketball team opened up GPAC play with a win on the road against Midland 76-52 Wednesday evening. The Cliff erupted in the fourth quarter, scoring 30 points to run away with the victory.
 
The first half was closely contested, with the Warriors leading 15-11 to start the second quarter. With 6:38 remaining in the quarter, the Chargers took a 18-15 lead following a layup from Konnor Sudmann. The Chargers took a 27-23 lead heading into halftime following a three from Cadence Davis.
 
The Cliff turned it on in the second half, leading by as many as 13 in the third quarter after a free throw from Payton Slaughter. The Warriors closed the gap to a two-possession game following a layup and free throw from Jenna Weber to trim the Charger lead to 46-40.
 
With seven minutes remaining in the contest, the Chargers held a 58-48 lead following a three from Kennedy Benne. Briar Cliff went on a 16-4 run capped by a three from Makenna Kleinhesselink. The Chargers then cruised to a 76-52 victory.
 
Benne led the way with 18 points to go with four rebounds and four steals. Slaughter chipped in 14 points and shot 50% from the field. Sudmann scored 14 points and shot 54% from the field and recorded two blocks.
 
The Charger defense held the Warriors to 37% shooting, and 18% from beyond the arc while forcing 23 turnovers.
 
The Chargers improve to 5-0 (1-0 GPAC) and will play at home for the first time this season, as they host the Flames of College of St Mary this Saturday. Tip-off is scheduled for 2 p.m.