ERIE, Pa. — No. 8 Indiana University of Pennsylvania used balanced scoring and a strong first half to earn a 68-63 victory over No. 5 Gannon on Saturday afternoon at the Highmark Events Center.

The Crimson Hawks built a nine-point halftime lead and held off a late Gannon rally to remain unbeaten. IUP led 18-15 after the first quarter and extended its advantage to 34-25 at the break before weathering the Golden Knights' push in the second half.

Ellie Wilkerson scored 17 points, going a perfect 8 for 8 from the free throw line, while Nyshae' Weaver also finished with 17 points and added a game-high 12 rebounds. Weaver shot 6 of 8 from the field as IUP placed four players in double figures.

Belle Bosch and Marin Miller each scored 10 points for the Crimson Hawks, and Teresa Maggio chipped in eight. IUP shot 52.4 percent from the floor and converted 19 of 24 free throws to seal the win.

Gannon was led by Bri Claxon's 21 points, including three 3-pointers. Kate Ratliff added 13 points and eight rebounds, while Mia Slater scored 13 points. The Golden Knights pulled within three points late in the fourth quarter but were unable to complete the comeback.

IUP improved to 15-0 overall and 8-0 in PSAC play, remaining atop the PSAC West standings. Gannon fell to 17-2 overall and 9-1 in conference action.