TOPEKA, Kan. – The Washburn University Ichabods tallied a 45-38 triumph over the Northwest Missouri State University women's basketball squad Wednesday evening in an MIAA matchup in Lee Arena.

The Ichabods improved to 7-1 at home and 13-5 overall and evened the season series with the Bearcats. Northwest dipped 10-9 overall and 3-6 in MIAA play. The Ichabods are 6-3 in the MIAA.

Northwest held a 19-11 advantage in the second quarter, however Washburn finished the period on a 13-2 run to take a 24-21 lead at the intermission. Northwest produced 17 second-half points after putting up 16 in the first period. Northwest was held to season lows in field goals (14), field goal percentage (27.5%) and points (38).

Northwest Missouri State opened the game with a steady offensive performance, highlighted by a 6-0 stretch early in the first quarter. Bailey Birmingham contributed significantly with two successful free throws and a three-pointer, helping establish an early lead. Sadie Maas added to the momentum with multiple field goals, benefiting from an assist by Ella Moody. The team demonstrated strong defense, forcing turnovers and grabbing defensive rebounds, which limited Washburn's scoring opportunities. By the end of the quarter, the Bearcats led 16-9.

The Bearcats faced a challenging second quarter as their early momentum, captured by Moody's three-pointer at 8:23, was not sustained. Despite Kirsten Hauck's turnover and Maas's defensive efforts, including a block, the Bearcats struggled offensively with only two baskets made. Washburn capitalized on second-chance opportunities and closed the quarter on a strong note, overtaking the lead with a series of layups, including a late basket by Yiibari Nwidadah at 0:55. The quarter concluded with Washburn ahead, 24-21, after outscoring the Bearcats 15-5 in the second quarter.

Northwest Missouri State regained momentum early in the third quarter with Moody's layup and subsequent free throw at 9:03, leveling the score at 24-24. Moody continued to drive the offense, adding another layup shortly after, but Washburn responded with a pair of jumpers to take a 30-26 lead. As time dwindled, Birmingham's three-pointer at 00:23, assisted by Maas, tied the game at 30-30. The quarter concluded with the teams deadlocked, as the Bearcats outscored Washburn 9-6 in the frame.

Northwest initiated the fourth quarter with a swift layup by Boston Wand at 9:42, assisted by Maas, to regain the lead. However, Washburn quickly responded with a three-pointer, reclaiming the advantage. Despite an effort to maintain momentum, including a successful and-one play by Moody at 8:07, the Bearcats faced challenges in closing the gap as Washburn capitalized on turnovers and defensive rebounds.

Midway through the quarter, Birmingham hit a crucial three-pointer at 5:51 to tie the game at 38–38. Yet, Washburn countered with consistent scoring and maintained control. In the final minutes, Northwest struggled to convert opportunities, while Washburn extended their lead through free throws and effective ball handling. The game concluded with Washburn securing a 45–38 victory.

Moody scored 13 points, including one 3-pointer, and recorded one steal. Birmingham added 11 points, converting three of eight attempts from beyond the arc, and collected one steal. Maas recorded a double-double with 10 rebounds and four assists while blocking three shots. Wand contributed defensively with two blocks and grabbed six defensive rebounds.

Looking ahead, Northwest Missouri State will face Central Missouri Saturday, Jan. 24 at 1 p.m. in Warrensburg, Mo.