MOUNT VERNON – In a matchup of Midwest Conference postseason contenders, Grinnell pulled away late for a 59-44 women's basketball win over the Rams Wednesday night inside the Small Athletic and Wellness Center.
 
The visiting Pioneers (12-8 overall, 7-5 MWC) broke a tight game with a 12-0 scoring run that spanned the third and fourth quarters to take control. Grinnell moved into a tie for third place in the league race.
 
Cornell (8-12 overall, 6-5 MWC) dropped to fifth place, although stands only one game out of second with five regular-season contests remaining.  
 
 First-year forward Bradie Buffington had her best game as a Ram, coming off the bench to post team-highs of 10 points and five rebounds. Her two free throws brought Cornell within 39-36 with 1:57 remaining in the third quarter.
 
The Rams were held to two made field goals over the final 12 minutes as Grinnell made its game-breaking run. The Pioneers built their biggest lead at 51-36 with 5:55 left.  
 
Kali March had nine points and three steals for the Rams. A'ryn Jackson added five points and five rebounds. Mia Murray came away with three steals.
 
Cornell limited the MWC's top 3-point shooting team to 3-of-19 from beyond the arc. Grinnell held a 37-30 rebounding advantage and received 22 points from all-conference guard Erin Lillis.
 
Coming up – Cornell travels to play Beloit (7-13 overall, 5-7 MWC) at 3 p.m. Saturday in Beloit, Wis. The Rams won the first meeting, 62-48.