GRINNELL, Iowa – Grinnell College's women started Midwest Conference basketball play on a strong note Friday, rolling over Beloit College 51-36 at Darby Gymnasium.
 
The Pioneers, who limited Beloit to 16 percent field goal shooting in the first period and 35 percent for the game, are 3-2 overall while Beloit fell to 0-2 in the league and 2-3 in all games.
 
Kayla Morrissey '18 had the hot hand for Grinnell, scoring a game-high 24 points with the help of 8-of-13 shooting from the field.
 
Haley Lopez added a career-high nine points, while Kaitlyn Norton '17 blocked two shots, a career high for her. Alex Neckopulos '17 grabbed a game-high seven rebounds and Sophia Gatton '17 had game-highs of three assists and three steals.
 
The game was never really in question, as Grinnell shot out to a 6-0 lead with a free throw by Morrissey, plus two baskets and free throw from Gatton.
 
Grinnell led 12-4 after one period and was up 15-10 in the second frame before delivering a key blow with a 9-2 run. Ariel Keller '17 started things with a free throw, Morrissey added a layup and Gatton a 3-pointer for a 21-10 edge.
 
After a basket by Beloit, Morrissey drained a 3-pointer to push the Pioneers ahead 24-12. Grinnell led 28-17 at halftime and never looked back.
 
The Pioneers entertain Lake Forest College at 1 p.m. Saturday in Darby Gymnasium.