SIOUX CITY, Iowa - (Box Score) Indiana Wesleyan opened up a 16-point lead to close out the first half and didn't allow Concordia (Neb.) to get within 14, as the Wildcats rolled to a 56-42 win on Wednesday at the 19th Annual State Farm-NAIA Division II Women's Basketball National Championship at the Tyson Events Center/Gateway Arena.

Indiana Wesleyan's record moves to 27-6 on the season and picks up its 12th win in national championship play. The Wildcats advance to Friday's second round to take on the winner of the Black Hills State (S.D.)/Eastern Oregon matchup. Concordia's 10th national championship appearance comes to a close in the first round for only the third time and wrap up its season with a record of 21-11.

The Wildcats knocked down half of their shots in the first half, going 11-for-22, but cooled off in the second half hitting only six of their 20 attempts. Elaine Hessel and Rachel Steinbarger teamed together to lead the charge with 12 points a piece. LeAnn Douglas also chipped in 11 points. Hessel controlled the paint, pulling down a game-high 11 rebounds. Taylor Goshert and Krystal Stoneking teamed together coming off the bench to add nine and fourth points, respectively.

Katie Rich registered a game-high 19 points for the Bulldogs and was 6-of-7 from the free-throw line. She was joined in double figures by Stacy Scheer with 10 points. Concordia struggled to find the long-range shot, converting just one its 10 attempts.

Both teams matched stats with points in the paint (20) and fast-break points (4).