Nov. 21, 2003

Box Score

EMPORIA, Kansas- The West Texas A&M University women's basketball team began its season Friday night on a winning note as it defeated Southern-Illinois Edwardsville 84-70.

It took about 10 minutes for WTAMU to get over the first game gitters before they found their rythum taking the early lead over SIU Edwardsville. Going into half time, WTAMU led 46-39. The Cougars were able to pull within two points just three minutes into the second half, but WTAMU's Stephanie Williams (junior guard) hit a layup and the Lady Buffs never looked back.

Junior guard, Suni Jo Petty, led the Lady Buffs with a game-high 19 points while draining a game-high of five three-pointers. Also leading the way for WTAMU was junior forward Celeste Steveson with 16 points and three rebounds. Steveson also hit five from the field while tying a game-high with six free-throws. Lady Buff newcomer, junior forward Tywanda Harris, contributed with nine rebounds, five from the field and ended the game with 12 points.

The Cougars had four players reaching double digits in points, led by Sarah Schweers with 17, three three-pointer, five from the field, and was a perfect 4-4 at the free-throw line.

The Lady Buffs return to action tomorrow (Saturday) for the second game of the Candlewood Sweets Classic at 7:30 p.m. taking on the host team Emporia State.

WTAMU has its home opener hosting the Buff Thanksgiving Classic beginning Friday, Nov. 28. For ticket information contact the Ticket Office at 806-651-1414.

-WT-