Vermillion, SD - The South Dakota women's basketball team claimed its first North Central Conference win with a 75-58 victory over Northern Colorado Saturday, Jan. 8 in Vermillion. The Coyotes improved to 8-4 in the NCC and 1-2 in the NCC. After assuming a 38-30 halftime lead, the Coyotes outscored the Bears, 37-28, in the second half. In fact, USD held a commanding 22-point spread at 70-48 with 3:40 remaining. Freshman Heather Nelson tossed in a collegiate high 26 points and she grabbed eight rebounds. Melinda Oster had 14 points and nine rebounds. Kelly Koepp finished with 13 points and she collected a game-high 12 rebounds. USD shot 36.4 percent and outrebounded the Bears, 51-32.