IUN News
Mon, Dec 21, 2009 - [Women's Basketball]

RedHawks Erase Ten-Point Halftime Deficit, Earn 7th Win of Season

On Friday night the RedHawks got off to a shaky start against Trinity Christian College. They managed to pull through in the second half with a 71-62 win, their third win of the last four games. The night also had the added historical significance of Sharon Houston's scoring her 1000th career point, the first Lady RedHawk to reach that milestone. Houston led four RedHawks in doubl;e figures with 23 points and 11 rebounds Other RedHakws in double figures were Ish Shah Terry-15, Nina Wills-13, and Juliette Keller-11

Despite IU Northwest jumping out to a 7-0 lead, Trinity Christian led for most of the first half. The RedHawks weren't adequately guarding or rebounding, and they failed to execute on offense. They went into halftime trailing 40-30.
 Ryan Shelton, RedHawks Coach, said, "Our effort in the first half was very poor. The coaching staff challenged the girls in the locker room at half time, we had to up our intensity to have a chance. To their credit the girls responded in a big way." IU Northwest outscored Trinity 41-22 in the second half to take control of the game and earn their 7th win of the season.

 
When they came back onto the court for the second half, they were clearly reinvigorated. Nina Wills supplied high pressure on defense, which kept Trinity Christian's shooting percentage low. Houston and Ish Shah Terry dominated in the paint, rebounding and scoring the basketball. Houston got into foul trouble late in the game and Terry came through with several key baskets. Nina Wills probably played her best all-around game of the season finishing with 13 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds and 4 steals.
 
Thanks to Terry, who came off the bench with 15 points and 10 rebounds, the RedHawks ran away with the lead in the last two minutes. Jenelle Kapelinski was solid handling the basketball down the stretch and added 7 points and 6 rebounds. It was a strong ending to an uneven, but ultimately successful night. 
The game provided a great atmosphere to play in as Trinity Christian brought many of their supporters the stands were packed with passionate fans.

When Houston scored her 1000th point, the RedHawks' faithful fans showed their appreciation for her accomplishment. "I can't say enough about Sharon and the teammate and competitor she is. She's a special player, and I'm proud to have been part of a historic night for her and the program." Shelton said. The RedHawks improved to 7-5 on the season and will be on the road tomorrow night facing off against St. Francis-Joliet. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

     
- Don Sjoerdsma