Spring Break
URI women's hoops hand Fordham Rams sixth loss
Matt Swiss
Issue date: 1/22/09 Section: Sports
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"I thought we played an opponent who allowed us to stay in the game just as much as we were allowing them to stay in the game," head coach Tom Garrick said. "It was a mistake-filled game. Too many turnovers and too many missed opportunities."
The victory marked Rhody's first conference win thus far as the Rams improved to 1-2 in the A-10.
"It's always good to get the monkey off your back," Garrick said. "We've played two of the better teams in our conference but I thought today we took a step forward."
After Rhode Island won the opening tip and came up empty on its first possession, Fordham's sophomore guard Kristin Bell stepped out of bounds just as she crossed half court. Moments later, Rhody's junior guard Lindsay Harris gave the ball right back when she was called for traveling.
Rhode Island went on to miss its first seven shots, allowing Fordham to jump out to an early 4-0 advantage, highlighted by two-point buckets from junior forward Randall Hurst and senior forward Takita Earl.
URI was able to stay in the game early with its aggressive play, knocking down its first four attempts from the free throw line within the first five minutes of play.
Senior forward Tanja Licina tied the game with Rhode Island's first shot from the floor off a missed shot from senior forward Sierra Cooper. Licina led the way for Rhody, as she reached double figures for the sixth time in her last nine games, recording 16 points.
Garrick feels that Licina is at her best when she stays within her range, rather than trying to do too much.
"As long as we can keep her in her comfort zone she's one of the most effective post players in the A-10," he said.
Fordham had an opportunity to put Rhode Island away and enter into the break with a nice cushion. After Rhode Island grabbed its first lead of the contest at 20-19 with a fast break lay-up from senior guard Crystal Bellinger, Fordham exploded on a 10-0 run. The run was capped off by a lay-up from Hurst, who led the way for Fordham with 18 points and 10 rebounds. It was her second straight double-double.
