ST. PAUL, Minn. – The University of Northwestern women's basketball team welcomed Bethel University to the Ericksen Center for the Eagles 2019-20 season opener. Following a first half battle, the Royals took over in the final 20 minutes of action to cruise to a 71-37 win.
 
Northwestern is 45-73 against the Royals all-time, dating back to 1973. They last defeated BU in 2017, when they picked up a home court win, 55-48.
 
Tonight's opener showcased a back-and-forth battle with five lead changes and four tied scores occurring in the first half. Northwestern trailed 14-11 after first quarter action but evened the scoring efforts out at 13 apiece in the second to trail by just three points at the half (27-24).
 
Brooklyn DeKam (Edgerton, Minn./Southwest MN Christian) led the first half scoring efforts, going four of five from the line to record eight points. The Eagles suffered from 15 first half turnovers, but edged the Royals in rebounding 12-11.

Bethel found their stride in the second half, outscoring Northwestern 44-13. The Royals held UNW to just one point in the third quarter to set the second half tone. They earned the majority of their success from points off of turnovers, forcing UNW into 38 in the contest.

Brooklyn DeKam (Edgerton, Minn./Southwest MN Christian) led Northwestern's offense, scoring 14 points on the night. Kelsea Lund (Madison, Minn./La qui Parle Valley) and Jordan Sauve (Blaine, Minn./Blaine) eached added six. Rio Landers (Grand Meadow, Minn./Grand Meadow) pulled down a team-best nine rebounds.

The Eagles will return to action on Tuesday, Nov. 12 when they welcome Hamline University to the Ericksen Center. Tipoff vs. the Pipers is slated for 7:30 p.m. Follow Northwestern women's basketball online this season at www.unweagles.com or on Twitter and Instagram at @unwwbb.