Playing a challenging non-conference schedule is key to Hiland's success year-in and year-out. On Saturday, the Hawks beat Div. II Hathaway Brown, led by Purdue commit Dani Lawson 51-40.

A strong second half was the key as the Hawks made the necessary adjustments late to limit Lawson, a sophomore, to just seven points and four rebounds and put the clamps on the Blazers.

The Hawks, who improved to 19-1 overall, were led by Kennedy Schlabach (13 points) and Angela Troyer (12 points). Alex Troyer paced Hiland with five rebounds and Brittany Miller dished out a team-high four assists.