November 30, 2009

RedStorm women stumble at Findlay

Findlay, Oh. --- The University of Rio Grande RedStorm women's basketball team played the University of Findlay for the first time since the two schools were members of the Mid-Ohio Conference on Saturday afternoon and Rio Grande might just soon wish it be the last time as the NCAA Division II school, coached by former Rio Grande player and assistant coach Kate Snyder Cummings, defeated Rio Grande 96-43 at Findlay. 

Rio Grande (5-3) scored the game's first two points and would not see the lead again as the Oilers poured it on. Findlay led 49-19 at the half and blistered the nets all game long, including shooting 62.5 percent (20-of-32) after halftime to finish at 56.3 percent (40-of-71) for the game.

The RedStorm had two players score in double figures led by junior center Ashley Saunders (Amanda, OH), who scored 12 points. Junior guard Jenna Smith (Bellefontaine, OH) added 10 points.

Findlay (4-0) had four players reach double figures in points led by the duo of Audra Mihalic and Laura Bardall, who each scored 16 points.

The RedStorm had difficulty with the size of the Findlay, but it was a good learning experience and will help prepare Rio for the Mid-South Conference. 

"I was hoping that we would compete a little more than we did in this game, but Findlay is a very good ball club," said Rio Grande head coach David Smalley. "This will definitely prepare for us some of the teams in the Mid-South Conference."

Rio Grande will continue its current road swing with a trip to Georgetown, KY this weekend to play in the Jim Reid Classic. Rio will face Siena Heights on Friday at 2 p.m. then tangle with College of the Ozarks on Saturday also at 2 p.m.