November 21, 2009

RedStorm falter in second half at Bethel

McKenzie, Tn. --- The University of Rio Grande RedStorm women's basketball team faltered in the second half on Friday against Bethel (TN) University at the Roy Baker Classic, losing 74-65 in the night cap of the opening round. 

Rio Grande (3-2) used a solid first half to take a 37-31 lead at halftime, but was out-scored 43-28 in the second half in dropping a second straight game. 

The RedStorm had three players score in double figures led by junior guard Jenna Smith (Bellefontaine, OH) with 16 points. She also hauled down six rebounds. Junior forward Leah Kendro (Strongsville, OH) continued her solid stretch of play, adding 12 points and five rebounds. Junior center Ashley Saunders (Amanda, OH) chipped 11 points. Junior point guard Bre Davis (Marietta, OH) dished out six assists. 

Two big keys for Bethel (5-2) in the second half were 50 percent shooting (6-of-12) from three-point land and connecting on 15-of-18 (86.4 percent) attempts from free throw line. The RedStorm were also plagued by 20 turnovers. 

The Wildcats were led by Teena Carter with 19 points and nine rebounds. Kashundria Berry and Anna Trull each tossed in 13 points each while Jovana Petrovic chipped in 10. Berry also led the way with five assists. 

Rio will look to end the two-game skid on Saturday versus Harris-Stowe (MO).