VANCOUVER - The UBC Thunderbirds opened up their season on the right foot Friday night, defeating Trinity Western 60-54 on the road.
The game was an exciting affair that came down to the wire, with UBC only pulling away for good late in the second half. UBC survived making 21 turnovers and some poor shooting to salvage the victory, using hustle on the boards and defense to make up the difference.
Junior guard
Kris Young (North Vancouver, BC) led the way for the Thunderbirds, at one point looking like she may have been on her way to a triple-double. Instead, Young finished with an impressive 18 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. Despite her eight turnovers, she kept control of the team when it mattered most, providing a steady hand at the helm.
Cassandra Knievel (Nanaimo, BC) also came through with an impressive outing, posting 15 points, including eight at the free throw line.
Victoria Spangehl (White Rock, BC) had 14 rebounds, including six on the offensive glass, while
Leigh Stansfield (Victoria, BC) came through with three blocks on the defensive end.
UBC shot just 34% from the floor and just 59% from the free-throw line but their smothering defensive effort held the Spartans to just 35% shooting as well.
The huge rebounding advantage and free-throw disparity made the difference in the end. If UBC can keep up the defensive effort and improve on their offensive efficiency, it isn't difficult to see them being a strong unit throughout the season.
Trinity Western hosts UBC once again on Saturday at 5 p.m.
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