The UBC Thunderbirds got out to a dominant start against the Ryerson Rams and never looked back, going on to a 74-55 win at War Memorial Gym on Thursday in their first pre-season home game of the 2009-10 season.
With the win, UBC improves its pre-season record to 2-2, and avenged last week's loss to Ryerson at the Darcel Wright Memorial Classic in Toronto.
T-Birds head coach,
Deb Huband, spoke about the turn around from last week.
"Last weekend was our first time on the court together," said Huband. "Obviously at the beginning of the season you have some kinks you have to work out. We were humbled a little bit but I thought we came out with great intensity tonight."
The host's intensity overwhelmed Ryerson early, as UBC got out to a 23-12 lead in the first quarter, an advantage the Rams would never challenge.
Huband cited her team's defensive efforts as key on the night.
"We did a much better job with the way we want to defend and compete for rebounds," explained Huband. "We've gained a lot of ground in a week of practice."
The T-Birds were anchored by post
Zara Huntley's season leading performance. Huntley led all players with 25 points, on 11-of-17 shooting, adding seven rebounds and four blocks.
"We expect Zara to take the lead, giving us a presence in the paint both offensively and defensively," said Huband. "She really used her body well, gained solid position, and showed composure to finish today."
Forward
Alex Vieweg also had a big night with 17 points, nine rebounds, and four steals.
Lisa Goldring led the Rams with 22 points, however, an improved UBC defence held her to just 8-of-21 shooting.
The 'Birds play one final exhibition on Saturday versus the Memorial Sea-Hawks before beginning the regular season Friday Oct. 30 at home against Trinity Western.
