VANCOUVER - Friday evening, the No. 6-ranked University of Regina Cougars hosted the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds in the opening weekend of play for the Canada West women's basketball regular season. The Cougars defeated the Thunderbirds 80-59.
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BOX SCORE
In the first quarter, the teams came out energized, moving the ball quickly and immediately setting a fast pace for the game. Despite the energy, the play was a bit disorganized at both ends of the court; countless turnovers plagued the plays and resulted in careless passing and some ineffective shooting. Fourth-year guard
Kris Young took a vital role in pushing UBC's offense forward, as she scored six points in the first quarter. The Cougars looked to Charlotte Kot and Jennilea Coppola to lead their offense; both players scored six points in the first. Regina finished the first quarter ahead, 23-12.
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During the second, the teams played far more evenly, with UBC beginning to develop its team rhythm.
Stephanie Bell and
Maggie Sundberg kicked the Thunderbird offense into high gear, scoring 9 and 10 points, respectively. Megan Chamberlin chipped-in 10 for the Cougars, helping Regina go into the half with a 39-29 lead.
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After the half, Regina steadily increased its lead over UBC, despite best efforts put forth by the Thunderbirds. The third finished with Regina ahead, 59-43; the Cougars would go on to win the game, 80-59.
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Kris Young,
Maggie Sundberg, and
Stephanie Bell scored 15, 16, and 14 points for the Thunderbirds tonight. Sunberg also led the 'Birds in rebounds, with 5.
The Cougars were led by Alyssa Kajati and Charlotte Kot, who each scored 17 and 14 points. Kot lead the game in rebounding with 9.
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Tomorrow afternoon, the 'Birds will travel to Manitoba to face off against Brandon University.
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