Women's Basketball

UC Women Rebound From First Conference Loss
February 17, 2006

Courtesy of The Charleston Gazette

Lisa Lee turned in a 26-point, nine-rebound effort before fouling out Thursday night as the University of Charleston earned a 100-76 West Virginia Conference women’s victory over visiting West Virginia State at Eddie King Gym.

It marked the first game for the Golden Eagles since Monday’s 73-69 setback at Wheeling Jesuit, which gave UC (23-2, 15-1) its first league loss, halted a 12-game overall winning streak and knocked the Eagles from first to third in the WVC ratings.

"We didn’t play as a team against Wheeling,’’ said UC coach Sherry Winn. "I thought we moved the ball much better tonight.’’

Lee, who also had five assists, was assessed her fourth personal foul with 4:14 left in the game and the Golden Eagles ahead by 15 points. Moments later, she was whistled for a technical, a fifth foul that relegated her to the bench the rest of the way. UC, however, was able to extend its advantage.

"We have a number of players who can also score,’’ Winn said. "We had some players step up when they needed to.’’

Jihan Williams added 18 points for UC, while Courtney Thomas and Rachel Pike each scored a dozen and Mandy Ebel 11. Erica McElroy handed out six assists. The Eagles shot 57.6 percent compared to State’s 36.4 percent.

The Yellow Jackets (13-12, 7-9) placed four players in double figures, led by 17 points and 10 rebounds from April Stevenson. Mallory Grogg scored 15 points, Randi Cary 12 and Lasha’ Anderson 11.

UC remains ranked first in the East region and seventh in the nation in the USA Today/ESPN coaches poll. Winn said the Eagles would likely need to win the WVC tournament to play host to the regional event.