Dawson, Sanderson 22 Each, Werner Double-Double as Penn Captures NIC Crown

Alivia Dawson and Jillian Sanderson provided the finishing blow, each scoring 22 points as Penn rolled to a 69-24 victory over Saint Joseph to clinch the Northern Indiana Conference crown. Alexis Werner chipped in an 11-point, 13-rebound double-double, and Penn’s defense held Saint Joseph to just 24 points, completing a perfect 7-0 run through NIC play.

From the opening minutes Penn set a physical tone, turning defense into offense and forcing low-percentage looks for Saint Joseph. Dawson and Sanderson combined for 44 points, spacing the floor and converting inside-out opportunities that Penn turned into transition chances. Werner’s 13 rebounds supplied second-chance possessions and limited Saint Joseph’s offensive boards, a decisive factor in a game decided by 45 points.

This result cements Penn atop the conference standings and marks a clear statement about the program’s trajectory. By finishing 7-0 in league play, Penn demonstrated consistency in execution on both ends of the floor. Scoring distribution centered on Dawson and Sanderson, but Werner’s presence on the glass illustrated a three-pronged foundation: perimeter scoring, interior finishing, and rebounding control. Those defined strengths kept Penn in command and prevented any sustained comeback threat from Saint Joseph.

Statistically the night reads like a defensive master class for Penn. Allowing 24 points in a conference-deciding game underscores disciplined team defense and situational awareness in half-court sets. Offensively, converting key possessions into points through Dawson and Sanderson’s scoring helped Penn maintain pressure and pace. Penn’s margin of victory also highlighted depth and rotation stability, as starters and reserves maintained intensity throughout.

Beyond the scoreboard, the win carries cultural and programmatic implications. In Indiana’s deep-rooted basketball culture, conference titles elevate program prestige and draw attention from college recruiters and local supporters. Penn’s dominance in the NIC will likely boost attendance and interest at upcoming games and may help sustain or increase booster support and youth participation in the program. Local media coverage and a game photo gallery captured the energy of the gym, reflecting heightened community interest in girls high school basketball.

For Penn, the conference crown is both a milestone and a launching pad. Dawson, Sanderson, and Werner have emerged as names to watch as postseason brackets approach, and Penn heads into the next phase of the season with momentum, local attention, and a clear identity formed around scoring punch and rebounding toughness.