T-Birds Get Win On Emotional Night
BOX SCORE
PORTLAND, Ore. - The Cascade College women's basketball team earned an emotional win over Simpson University by the score of 87-73 in front of a large crowd at the Thunderdome tonight.
After learning that their college would be closing at the end of the school year, the 8 players in uniform for the T-Birds put forth a spirited effort. "48 hous ago, I wasn't sure we would competing this season," said head coach Matt Murphy. "The ladies went through the sadness and anger about the news, and then came together determined to make this year the best it can be. There will be the usual ups and downs that all teams go through in any season, but what a chance to build character and appreciate our blessings even more!"
Cascade started quickly, jumping out to a 8-0 lead. The T-Birds would forge a 38-18 lead with 5:42 left in the first half on two Amy Russell free throws. The visiting Redhawks fought back to within 10 at the half, but were plagued by 20 first period turnovers.
Simpson went on a 11-2 run to open the second half, and would take a two point lead on a Kayla Rackey trey with 13:38 to play. The T-Birds did not panic, and regained the lead on a Kristina Schumacher layup with 6:04 to play and would not trail again. Key in the victory was Cascade a big advantage in free throws as the Thunderbirds hit for 39 of 54 - both of which are team records - while Simpson was just 8 for 18.
Kristina Schumacher led Cascade with 33 points, including 15-18 from the free throw line. Maya Gross crashed the boards for 17 caroms including 10 on the offensive end. "The ladies just really needed this result," said Murphy. "It was a satifying night for our team and all the students who came and supported us."
Dominque Simmons led the Redhawks with 11 points and 9 rebounds, and Sara Fairburn added 10 counters.