March 1, 2008

Final Stats

Western Kentucky began the game on a 10-0 run and were led by Crystal Kelly's 26 points as the Lady Hilltoppers defeated Florida Atlantic University 89-52 on Saturday at FAU Arena.

The Owls struggled from the field in the first half, shooting only 26.7 percent (8-30), and only hit three of their first 22 shots. Western Kentucky meanwhile got off to a hot start, shooting 58 percent (20-34 from the field). After a lay-up and foul by Kelly, the Hilltoppers led 35-11. FAU would respond with Jaimie Givens, who hit a couple of jumpers to lead FAU in the first half with eight points. The Hilltoppers responded and after another Crystal Kelly lay-up, WKU led 48-23 at the break.

The second half was much the same story, the Owls only shot 13-40 from the field (32.5 percent), and Western Kentucky would continue to take advantage. WKU (23-7, 16-2 Sun Belt) shot 15-34 in the second half, and had four players in double-digits, led by Kelly's 26 points and nine rebounds. Arnika Brown came off the bench to pick up a double-double, 16 points and 13 rebounds. Amy McNear added 11 points along with a team leading seven assists. Whitney Ballinger scored 10 points, also off the bench. Western Kentucky outrebounded FAU 55-34 and also forced 24 Owl turnovers.

FAU (6-21, 2-16 SBC) was led by Brittany Bowe, who scored 13 points. Jaimie Givens added 12 points and Breana Cox scored 10 points. The Owls only connected on five of 24 three-pointers in the game.

FAU will be the number 13 seed in Wednesday's Sun Belt conference tournament. The Owls will travel to play the fourth-seeded Arkansas State in the first round. The time for Wednesday's game has yet to be announced. Arkansas State and FAU played twice in the regular season. The Lady Indians defeated the Owls 72-46 on December 18 in Jonesboro, then defeated FAU 76-61 at FAU Arena on February 9.