The Dordt University women's basketball team opened the 2025-26 season in commanding fashion Friday night, rolling past Viterbo University 93-49 at the R.W. Beggs, Sr. Gymnasium.

The top-ranked Defenders (1-0) wasted no time asserting control, jumping out to a 26-5 lead in the first quarter behind a stifling defense and efficient offense. Dordt shot 50% from the field in the opening frame and held the V-Hawks to just 20% shooting.

Senior guard Macy Sievers led the charge with 12 points, two assists, and two steals, including a stretch in the first quarter where she scored six straight points off steals and fast breaks. Gracie Schoonhoven paced the Defenders with a game-high 15 points, going a perfect 5-for-5 from the free-throw line and 5-of-7 from the field.

Willow Bleeker added 14 points, including two three-pointers, and Olivia Harazin chipped in nine points on a perfect 4-for-4 shooting night. The Defenders showcased their depth, with 35 points coming from the bench, including eight apiece from Aubrey Burkhart and Mara Grant.

Dordt's defense was relentless, forcing 11 turnovers and converting them into 14 points. The Defenders outrebounded Viterbo 31-27 and scoring 10 second-chance points.

Viterbo (0-1) struggled to find offensive rhythm, shooting just 29.5% from the field and 27.3% from beyond the arc. Nora Tucker led the V-Hawks with 18 points, including four three-pointers.

Dordt's largest lead of the night came in the fourth quarter, ballooning to 48 points. The Defenders closed out the game with a balanced attack, as 13 players saw action and 11 scored.

By the Numbers:

• the Defenders shot 47% for the game, including 50% or better in each of the first three quarters
• Dordt shot 32% (7/22) from beyond the arc and missed just two free throws (16/18)
• the Defenders, who ranked third in the NAIA last season in rebound margin, held a 31-27 edge on the glass
• three players scored in double figures and nine Defenders had at least six points

Notes:

• Dordt improved to 4-0 all-time against Viterbo, also earning wins against the V-Hawks in 2004, 2011 and 2016
• this was the 10th straight win for the Defenders, dating back to last season
• Sievers has scored in double figures in 63 career games
• Schoonhoven has scored in double figures in 38 career games
• Bleeker has scored in double figures in 13 career games
• Bleeker has made a three-pointer in 28 consecutive games
• Dordt has won its last five season-openers