After a rough loss at UW-Stevens Point on Wednesday that ended an eight-game win streak, the women’s basketball team rebounded with a win at home against UW-Eau Claire.

The Pointers beat the Warhawks 80-58, although junior center Cortney Kumerow said the game was closer than the score indicates.

“We always know going to Stevens Point is a tough place to play, and we really felt like we were ready,” Kumerow said. “Still, they just chipped away all game and we could never catch up.”

The ’Hawks shot just 33 percent from the field, due to a strong Pointers defense. The ’Hawks made 23 out of 28 free throws to keep the score respectable.

Kumerow said the ’Hawks were thrilled to be playing at home after playing the Pointers on the road.

“Being at home makes a huge difference,” Kumerow said. “We take pride in always winning at home. It’s tough getting on the bus and driving for hours, mentally even more so than physically.”

On Saturday, the ’Hawks recovered and beat UW-Eau Claire 61-41.

“We played so well against Eau Claire,” Kumerow said.. “Our defense and rotations were amazing and we were intense and focused for all 40 minutes.”

The Blugolds were in first place in the WIAC going into the game against UW-Whitewater, but the ’Hawks were able to get back into the mix for the top spot in the  WIAC with the win.

Kumerow said the team got off to a great start against the Blugolds.

“We tend to jump out and get on top of teams early,” Kumerow said. “We really did that against Eau Claire, but unfortunately we weren’t able to start well against Point.”

As usual for the ’Hawks, the scoring was extremely balanced in the win. Kumerow led all scorers with 11, and sophomore guard Katie Burton chipped in 10. In total, 10 players contributed to the team’s 61 points.

The ’Hawks defense, however, is what Kumerow said was the key to victory. The ’Hawks tallied 14 steals and held the Blugolds to 26 percent shooting. Kumerow said the defensive energy and intensity would roll over to the ’Hawks’ next game.

“How we play in one game usually carries over to the next, so I think our defense and rotations should be just as good against La Crosse,” Kumerow said.

The ’Hawks will host the Eagles  at 7 tonight in the Kachel Gymnasium.