Columbia rolls to 11th straight victory
Saturday, January 02, 2010
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Lady Cougars posted their 11th straight victory tonight in the second day of the Cougars vs. Cancer Classic presented by Cost Cutters. Columbia defeated the Vikings from Missouri Valley College 78-49 to go 2-0 in the two-day event. The Lady Cougars, ranked No. 9 in the NAIA Top 25 Poll, are 11-1 on the season. Missouri Valley falls to 5-8 overall.
The Lady Cougars started the game with an 11-0 run and did not look back. At the half, Columbia was lead 35-23 including a 15-point performance from Rachel Oswald.
Columbia continued their hot shooting and high pressure defensive ways in the second half and forced Missouri Valley into 24 turnovers while shooting 49 percent from the field to take the 29-point win.
Oswald finished with 23 points to lead all scorers. Rachel also posted a team high 10 rebounds. Veronica Smith chipped in 20 points while Denise Rosario finished with 10.
Following the final contest of the evening, a five-member all-classic team, as well as a most valuable player for the women, was recognized. Members of the women’s squad include, from Missouri Valley, Gita Grava. From William Woods, Rachel Baker and Jestine Gerber were recognized as well as K.K. Hodges from Lyon College. From Columbia, Veronica Smith was named to the all-classic squad and Rachel Oswald earned most valuable player accolades.
The Lady Cougars return to the hardwood on Monday, January 4th when they travel to McPherson, Kan. for a 5:30 p.m. contest with McPherson (Kan.) College.