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Tough defense propels Oles to 62-52 victory over Bethel

Sarah McBroom
January 9, 2003

The St. Olaf Women?s Basketball Team got their first conference win of the season against the Bethel College Royals, winning 62-52 at home on Wednesday, January 8. The Oles held a comfortable lead for most of the contest, and came away with the win.

Bethel made a small run at the end of the first half and pulled to within 4 points, trailing only 25-21 at the half. The Oles improved their offense in the second half, shooting 39.4 percent in comparison to the Royals? shooting percentage of 35. The Oles shot well from the free throw line in the closing minutes of the game to secure the win.

The keys to the Ole victory was St. Olaf?s tough and scrappy defense which gave the Bethel backcourt trouble and forced 22 Bethel turnovers. The Oles continue to improve their turnovers and held their turnover total to just 12.

St. Olaf?s balanced scoring effort was also impressive and effective, as four players scored in the double-digits. Liz Mundahl (Sr. Eagan, Minn.) lead the way with 16 points, Jill Johnson (Jr. Butterfield, Minn.) scored 12, Christine Schwichtenberg (FY. Hopkins, Minn.) had a season high 11 points, and Sara Erickson (Sr. Cambridge, Minn.) scored ten for the Oles. Starting point guard Kelly Sweeney (Jr. Oakdale, Minn.) also had a good night for St. Olaf, as she grabbed eight rebounds and dished out seven assists.

As a team, the Royals covered the glass well, collecting 24 offensive boards and out-rebounding St. Olaf 47-35. However, they struggled from the free throw line, connecting on three of ten attempts. Anna Cunningham had a double-double for the Royals, as she scored 20 points and grabbed 15 rebounds.

The Oles next play Augsburg College at home on Saturday, January 11, at 3:00 p.m., in another MIAC conference match-up.

Contact Le Ann Finger at 507-786-3315 or finger@stolaf.edu.