WINONA, Minn. – Simpson won 84-72 over Saint Mary’s but it could have been even worse for the Cardinals who trailed by as many as 24 to a Storm team that played an all-around basketball game.

Simpson led 40-29 at the half but went on a 15-4 at the start of the second half, creating a 55-33 lead with 12:27 remaining in the game.

The Cardinals provided some push back but never got closer than 11 away from the Storm at 77-66 with just over a minute left in the game.

Ryan Skaar led the charge, scoring 19 points with the help of a 7 of 7 performance from the free throw line.

Skaar plays primarily on the outside, but Simpson didn’t neglect the inside game, outscoring the Cardinals (4-4) 40-24 in the paint.

Amsbaugh factored heavily in that margin, scoring 14 points while also reeling in a team-high eight boards.

Austin Turner also flirted with a double-double for Simpson, with the point guard scoring eight points and reeling in seven rebounds.

Looking ahead

Simpson will host Monmouth College on Monday, Dec. 21 at 3 p.m. before heading to the University of Dubuque Classic on Dec. 29 and 30.