12.20.06

UC Women win in Puerto Rico
December 20, 2006

The University of Charleston overcame foul trouble to hold on for a victory against the University of Puerto Rico Bayamon 79-76 in women’s basketball Tuesday in Puerto Rico in the first of three games there.

Jihan Williams scored a team-high 16 points to lead five players in double figures for UC (4-4). Chelsea Joseph and Emily Jones added 11 points apiece and Rachel Pike and Veronica Carmen donated 10 points each for the Golden Eagles.

UC led 55-37 in the second half, but was whistled for 27 fouls. Puerto Rico Bayamon took advantage at the free-throw line, sinking 22-of-33 attempts to stay in the game.

The Golden Eagles were also without senior guards Courtney Thomas and Erica McElroy, who fouled out, down the stretch. UC, however, received a lift as its bench contributed 39 points.

“The big key was even with our two senior guards out we were able to win the game at the end,’’ said UC coach Sherry Winn. “It was pretty tough. Whatever we did defensively was a foul.

“We couldn’t get a stop in the second half. We just found a way to make a basket when we needed it. We were able to keep our head and keep our composure. We’ve encountered this type of thing before, but we haven’t been able to prevail.’’

UC will take on the University of Puerto Rico Rio Piedras today, then play the University of Puerto Rico Cayey on Thursday. The Golden Eagles return home to play host to Wingate at 4 p.m. Dec. 29.