Bernell DorroughThe Washington University women’s basketball team opened their season in impressive fashion, cruising through two games to capture the title at the Illinois-Wesleyan University Tip-Off Tournament.
The Bears’ first win of the season and tournament, over DePauw, marked the thirteenth straight time the Bears have led off the season with a victory.
In their opening game against DePauw, the Bears utilized a stifling defense to control the game throughout. They ultimately won the game 69-56 while holding DePauw to 32.8% shooting. In the game, the Bears jumped out to a 15-8 lead early on before DePauw rallied to close within two towards the end of the first half. A three pointer by junior Hallie Hutchins would give the Bears a 34-29 lead at the close of the first half.
The Bears picked up right where they left off in the second half of the game. They opened the second half with seven unanswered points and never allowed DePauw to come back. The Bears led DePauw for all but two minutes of the game. Senior guard Lesley Hawkins paced the Bears with 19 points on 8 for 14 shooting while adding five rebounds. Sophomore Kelly Manning contributed 11 points on equally sharp 4-7 shooting. Senior center Suzy Digby led the team with 6 rebounds. Overall, the Bears shot 44.1% from the field while out-rebounding DePauw 48-33.
With the win, the Bears went on to face Illinois Wesleyan in the title game. While the opponent changed, the Bears’ formula for success was the same-stingy defense and accurate shooting. The Bears defeated Illinois Wesleyan by the score 81-65 and limiting their opponent to 38.8% shooting. The Bears shot a blistering 52.5% for the game.
Three Bears scored in double figures in the rout with Senior Lesley Hawley leading the way with a career high 22 points. Hawley connected on all four of her three point attempts in the game. Manning was again second in scoring with 16 points. Displaying an all around game, Manning also pitched in with five rebounds and a team high six assists. Digby was also in double figures with 10 points. Brooke Bailey led Illinois Wesleyan in scoring with 17 points.
The Bears, who are currently ranked third in the nation, will look to improve their record to 3-0 as they take on Webster University this Tuesday at the Washington University Field House at 6pm.
Illinois Wesleyan Univ. Tip-Off Tournament
Friday, Nov 21 at Bloomington, IL.
SCORES BY PERIOD 1 2 total
Depauw Univ. 29 27 56
Washington Univ. 34 35 69
Points: Lesley Hawley (19)
Saturday, Nov 22 Bloomington, IL.
SCORES BY PERIOD 1 2 total
Illinois Univ. 35 30 65
Washington Univ. 50 31 81
Points: Lesley Hawley (22)
Assists: Kelly Manning (6)