(LAS VEGAS) The undefeated #5 Westmont Women’s Basketball team (4-0) achieved another victory on their away game expedition when they overcame Lindenwood-Belleville (Ill.) 76-56.
Within the first minute, the Warriors scored the initial five points of the game off of a shot by sophomore Lauren McCoy and a three-pointer by freshman Kayla Sato.
Lindenwood answered with two seven-point runs that were five minutes apart. The second of these, earned them a solid nine-point lead with only three and one half minutes left in the first half (20-29). This run consisted of two successful consecutive shots by Kindra Brown followed by a three-pointer by Rilea Huff.
Twenty seconds later, the Warriors responded to this deficit with an 11-point run. Senior Lauren Sende ignited their offensive flame with a two-point shot, assisted by senior Krissy Karr. Next, junior Aysia Shellmire added on a two-point shot of her own and Sende followed with another successful two-point shot. Then, Karr scored a three-pointer and Sende ended the run the way it began, with a two-point shot (31-29).
The half ended with both teams tied at 31-31.
The game remained neck and neck for the first five minutes of the third period until the Warriors went on an impressive 13-point run to take a significant lead (53-38).
This run consisted of two three-pointers by Karr (who had a team high of 18 total points), a three-pointer by freshman Kayla Sato, and two two-point shots by Shellmire.
This run proved to be crucial in the Warrior’s overall victory, as Lindenwood could not close the gap.
The Warrior’s maintained this lead due to their continued offensive success and disciplined defense efforts. Defensively, sophomore Lauren McCoy led the team with ten rebounds – a fourth of the team’s total rebounds.
In a quick turn – around, the Warriors will play Great Falls (Mont.) tomorrow at 6:00 p.m. in Las Vegas.
