Northwestern University Athletics
Northwestern
Penn State
Lady Lions Down 'Cats, 85-53
1/4/2007 12:00:00 AM | Women's Basketball
Jan. 4, 2007
Box Score
Penn State Boxscore
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UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Penn State shot 55 percent from the field and connected on 24-of-29 free throws en route to an 85-53 victory against the 'Cats Thursday evening at the Bryce Jordan Center. Junior Sara Stutz (Glenview, Ill./Glenbrook South) led NU with 16 points, while sophomore Kristin Cartwright (Lake Forest, Ill./Lake Forest) added 13.
"We didn't come out ready to play," head coach Beth Combs said. "We played an even second half with them but it was a little too late. We need to be able to make plays from the tip. We are very disappointed but will re-group and be ready to go on Sunday."
The Wildcats (6-9, 0-2) were competitive early before the Lady Lions ran off 14 unanswered points to push the lead to 26-8 mid-way through the first half. Penn State never looked back and Northwestern could muster just 14 points the rest of the opening stanza. PSU held a 49-22 lead at the break.
The Wildcats rebounded in a big way the second half, nearly outscoring the Lady Lions, but could not overcome the first-half deficit. Northwestern's defense forced 20 Penn State turnovers, which led to 10 fast break points.
Nadia Bibbs (Chicago, Ill./Boston University) pulled down a team-high six rebounds while also dishing out four assists.
The Wildcats host Iowa at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 7 in their conference home-opener. Sunday is also the Purple Hair Dare. If there are 3,000 pre-sold tickets to the game, Combs will dye her hair purple. Come and be part of the excitement at Welsh-Ryan Arena. Purchase your tickts today by calling 847.491.CATS.
