In an all-too-familiar scenario, Central (2-6) saw a halftime lead disappear. The Dutch were up 34-31 at the break, despite shooting just 39.4 percent from the field, but that percentage declined to 36 percent in the second half and was an icy 11.1 percent in overtime. Central hit just one of nine attempts from the floor in the extra session, going more than three minutes before scoring as William Penn (5-9) outscored the Dutch 7-2.
Hegner had 12 points, 16 rebounds and five blocks while Nekola had 12 points and 11 boards. Guard Katy Paxton was again hot from the outside, hitting all four 3-point attempts and finishing with a game-high 14 points. Guard Rachel Lenox, playing in her hometown of Oskaloosa, had 11 points, six rebounds, two assists and five steals in 40 minutes.
Central dominated the glass, 53, 38, but committed 24 turnovers.
It’s a quick turnaround for the Dutch, who close their pre-Christmas schedule with a non-conference contest with Grinnell College Saturday at 2 p.m. at Kuyper Gym. Central then takes a break for final exams and the holidays, returning to action with an Iowa Conference contest at Luther College Jan. 5.