ALLENDALE, MICH. – Playing in its second NCAA Division II Tournament, the Maryville women's basketball team saw its 2026 tourney appearance come to an end at No. 1 ranked Grand Valley State. The Saints fell behind early and never were able to recover as the Lakers advanced with an 83-50 decision. Maryville's season comes to an end after a school-record 25 wins this year.
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
The Saints were unable to find their early shooting form and missed their first five attempts. The Lakers converted 6-of-8 shots to grab the early lead. Adylan Ayer got the Saints on the scoreboard after more than four minutes of play to make it 13-2. GVSU scored seven more points before Madyson Ridgon connected with a 3-pointer to make it 20-5.
 
The teams traded baskets to open the second until the Lakers scored 10 straight points. The Saints answered with their own 10-0 run to close the half. Lindsey Schadewalt sank a jumper, and Ayer connected from deep. Gracie Gopalan scored on a drive, and a late 3-pointer by Claire Lueken made it 45-21 at halftime. The Maryville defense did not allow a point the final 3:54 of the quarter and forced five straight misses from GVSU.
 
Early in the third, Lueken drained a 3-pointer. After a defensive stop, Lueken hit one free throw as the Saints closed to within 50-27. However, that would be as close as the Saints would get in the second half.

STATISTICAL LEADERS
Points: Claire Lueken - 12
Rebounds: Gracie Gopalan and Lindsey Schadewalt - 4
Assists: Gracie Gopalan - 5
3-Pointers: Claire Lueken - 3
Steals: four players - 3
Blocked Shots: Liz Behan - 2
 
RECORDS
Maryville: 25-7
#1 Grand Valley State.: 31-1