Nov. 15, 2007

Box Score

The Upper Iowa University women's basketball team opened their home regular season schedule against Mount Mercy on Thursday night, Nov. 15. The Mustangs came in with a 1-2 record, while the Peacocks were looking for their first victory. After a close first half, the Peacocks pulled away to win 64-51.

Despite the Peacock size advantage, the Mustangs were able to hang with the home team. Mount Mercy started quick and sustained their effort through the first half. Upper Iowa built a small lead at the end of the half due to improved execution and stronger rebounding. Andrea Downs led Upper Iowa in the first half with 12 points. Sara Best was perfect from the field chipping in 8 points. Upper Iowa went into the locker room leading 38-29.

Downs continued to set the tone for the Peacocks finishing with 19 points on 4 of 7 shooting from behind the arc. The Mustangs did not go away in the second half pulling within 6 with 6:08 left in the game. However, Upper Iowa quietly pulled away as the Peacock defense stepped up and only allowed 4 points the rest of the way.

While Downs led the Peacocks in points, Christa Hammel chipped in 10 points while Sara Best and Ashley Martin each tallied 8 points. Jodi Best netted 7 points off the bench. Hammel led the team in rebounds with 8. Paige DeVine and Jodi Best each pulled down 7 boards.

The Mustangs were led by Jessie Dirks who put in 15 points thanks to hitting 13 of 14 from the free throw line. Mount Mercy had three players with 4 rebounds in the game.

Upper Iowa will return to Prochaska Court in Fayette on Saturday, Nov. 17. The Peacocks will host the Lady Statesmen of William Penn University. Tip-off is scheduled for 6 p.m.