HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Indiana Northwest kept its perfect season intact Tuesday night, defeating Huntington University 92-80 in a high-scoring affair. The RedHawks (5-0) controlled the tempo from the start, backed by 41 points from Jessica Carrothers, and withstood a late push from the Foresters to seal the win. Huntington recently defeated the University of the Cumberlands (Ky.), which is ranked No. 7 in the country. Both Indiana Northwest and Huntington were in the "receiving votes" category in the latest NAIA Women's Basketball National Top 25 rankings.

The RedHawks came out strong, outshooting Huntington with a 50.8% field goal percentage and an impressive 58.3% from beyond the arc. Carrothers, who led the charge, went 13-of-28 from the field and hit 14 of 17 free throws. Her relentless drive kept Indiana Northwest's offense humming, especially in the fourth quarter, as Huntington mounted a comeback attempt.

Indiana Northwest established a 19-11 lead after the first quarter and held a 38-29 advantage at halftime. The RedHawks extended their lead in the third quarter, outscoring Huntington 26-15, and entered the final frame with a 20-point cushion. Despite Huntington's 36-point outburst in the fourth quarter, the RedHawks' balanced scoring, defensive focus, and Carrothers' timely shooting helped secure the victory.

The RedHawks' inside presence was key, with forward Tiara Jackson adding 19 points on 7-of-13 shooting and pulling down nine rebounds. Maggie Grady also made her presence felt in the paint, recording 12 rebounds, six points, and two steals. Together, they helped Indiana Northwest outscore Huntington 40-30 in the paint.

Katelyn Halfacre and Alyna Santiago provided valuable support from the perimeter. Halfacre went 2-of-3 from beyond the arc, while Santiago added 10 points, making crucial baskets that maintained Indiana Northwest's momentum.

Huntington was led by Bailey Kelham, who posted a team-high 22 points, including four 3-pointers, and Liv Raby, who recorded an 18-point, 12-rebound double-double. Gabi Melby contributed 13 points and six rebounds for the Foresters, who closed the gap with a late scoring run but ultimately fell short.

The RedHawks capitalized on turnovers and maintained composure in key moments. Indiana Northwest scored 17 points off turnovers, compared to Huntington's 20, but held the advantage in crucial possessions to preserve the lead. The RedHawks' bench added eight points, while Huntington's contributed 15, but the Indiana Northwest starters carried the load to clinch the road win.

The RedHawks continue their road trip on Friday, Nov. 15, when they travel to Marion, Ind., to face No. 2 Indiana Wesleyan. Tip-off is scheduled for 5 p.m. CST.