The Penn women's basketball team ended 2004 on a high note Thursday afternoon, beating West Philadelphia rival Drexel, 54-50.
After opening the game by going up 11-5 after just over six minutes of play, Penn (4-6) held a 25-19 lead at halftime. This was due in no small part to a dominating performance by the Quakers on the boards, as they outrebounded the Dragons (4-3), 18-9, in the first half. The Red and Blue turned those boards into six second-chance points, while Drexel had none.
Drexel controlled the first seven minutes of the second half, cutting the margin to 30-28. For the next four minutes, though, the Dragons were held scoreless as Penn extended its lead to ten points. Drexel fought back late, but it was not enough.
Penn sophomore guard Joey Rhoads was the game's leading scorer, coming off the bench to score 16 points in 24 minutes. Senior guard Karen Habrukowich scored 13 points and also had five rebounds.
Three Drexel players scored in double figures. Forward Katrina Martin had 10 points while guards Kira Kalstrom and Catherine Scanlon each added 14. Scanlon was also the game's leading rebounder, with eight boards. Junior center Jennifer Fleischer led Penn with seven rebounds, and also shot 5-of-6 from the free-throw line.
Penn's next game will be Monday, Jan. 3, at Rider.
The Daily Pennsylvanian is an independent, student-run newspaper. Please consider making a donation to support the coverage that shapes the University. Your generosity ensures a future of strong journalism at Penn.
DonatePlease note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.