University at Buffalo
13-13, 6-7
Kent State
18-7, 9-4
Hot Shooting First Half Leads Kent State Over Buffalo, 72-52
2/19/2011 12:00:00β―AM | Women's Basketball
KENT, OH – The University at Buffalo women's basketball team was unable to overcome a 19-point halftime deficit, falling at Kent State, 72-52. The loss drops UB's record to 13-13 on the season and 6-7 in the MAC.
The Golden Flashes led throughout the contest, but it was tight early on. A three pointer from sophomore Nicki Hopkins pulled the Bulls within four at 20-16 with 8:26 left, but that is as close as they would get in the game. The Golden Flashes went on a 12-0 run over the next three minutes, stretching their lead to 16. Kent State led by as many as 19 in the opening half, which was its lead going into halftime.
The second half started out with the Bulls looking to make a run, but 30 fouls were called between the two teams in the half, sending both teams to the line often. The Golden Flashes led 45-24 in the second half when the Bulls went on an 11-0 run, capped off by a three-point play from senior Jessica Fortman, pulling the Bulls within 10 with 12:13 left. The Bulls finally pulled within single digits with 6:59 left on a jumper from Brittany Hedderson, but it was as close as the Bulls would get.
UB was led by Kourtney Brown, who had 18 points, 15 rebounds, two assists and a block. Fortman was the only other player in double figures as she finished with 10 points and eight rebounds. Ashley Zuber had eight points and three assists, while Hedderson and Bridgette Kendricks each finished with four. Kendricks did pull down nine rebounds and add a block and three steals.
Four different Bulls scored off the bench, including Kristen Sharkey, who returned for the first time after missing the last six games due to injury. The Bulls tied their season-high with 52 team rebounds, including a season-best 22 on the offensive end.
The Golden Flashes, who honored their five senior starters before the game, were led by 26 points and nine rebounds from Taisja Jones. Jamilah Humes finished with 15 points, nine assists and six steals. Ellie Shields also had double figures with 10 points.
The Bulls return home on Wednesday for their first of their final two regular season home games. UB faces Miami (OH) at 7:00 pm at Alumni Arena.
