Jan. 28, 2008
LIVINGSTON, Ala. - The Argonaut women's basketball team fell to 1-4 in the conference, and 8-12 on the season, with the 62-54 loss to West Alabama. The Tigers improved to 3-2 in the conference, and 7-12 overall with the win. The key to the win was 24 of 33 free throws made for West Alabama. West Florida was within five points with 1:48 to play; however, the Tigers hit seven of eight free throws in the final two minutes to seal the win. The Argos defense kept the game close, but offensively, they shot only 29% from the field.
Tara Russ had a solid first half for West Florida with nine points, as the Argos only shot 25% as a team, and trailed 29-22 at halftime. West Alabama held a seven to 13 point lead for the entire second half, until the Argos closed to within five points at 57-52, with 1:48 to play; however, the Tigers held on for the win by hitting free throws down the stretch. Russ finished the night with a game high 20 points, while Chelsea Patterson added 14.
Head Coach Shannan Bergen was proud of the effort, despite coming up short, "We played well, and executed nicely by getting the ball to our post players. The kids did everything I asked of them, but we just can't seem to get our shots to fall more consistently. I am very positive, as the last two games we have executed the offense better and played solid defense."
West Florida did a great job attacking the inside against the five guard offense of West Alabama, as Russ combined with Dominique Boykins for 29 points from the post position, but it wasn't quite enough. The Argos raced out to an 8-4 lead, on the strength of two quick baskets from Boykins, and a layup from Easley. However, the Tigers brought two guards off the bench and starting trapping and pressing and outscored West Florida 15-4 over the next several minutes to grab a seven point lead. Despite great effort defensively, the Argos could only get closer than seven points just once with 1:48 play, but fell short.
Samantha Schlaegel led all players with 10 rebounds, while Karmeshia Easley had two steals for West Florida. Laura Davis added five points, while Jessie Ivey contributed with two points, four rebounds, one assist, and one steal. The Argos will return home to take on #17 Valdosta State at the UWF Fieldhouse, Saturday February 2nd, with tip off at 4:30, following the Men's game.
