Game Notes

DURHAM, N.C. – The North Carolina Central University women’s basketball team will hit the home hardwood on Saturday, Nov. 20 for the 2010 home-opener against the Blue Hose of Presbyterian College in McDougald-McLendon Gym at 6 p.m.

This is the third meeting of the two programs, with the series lead by the Lady Eagles 1-0.

During their last match-up in the Palmetto State, NCCU snapped its losing streak by defeating the Blue Hose 57-56. Senior Shanise Blanks hit five 3-pointers to amass 15 points, along with a career-high five assists. Junior Blaire Houston hit a game-changing layup to give the Lady Eagles their first lead of the game.

The NCCU bench outscored the Blue Hose bench 30-27, while leading in fast break points. On the defensive side, the Lady Eagles forced 16 Presbyterian turnovers, while holding the Blue Hose to less than 40 percent from the field and below 25 percent from long range.

Three student-athletes led Presbyterian in double-digits. Kristen Stevens led the team with a game-high 16 points. Shonda Burnside added 12 points and six rebounds. Dria David and Burnside tied with six rebounds, David also added five steal for a defensive contribution.

The Lady Eagles enter the contest coming off a 111-47 loss at Wake Forest. NCCU senior Jori Nwachukwu earned her first double-double of the season, obtaining 16 points and 16 rebounds during her 26 minutes of play. To supplement the offensive effort, freshman Bria Byrd came off the bench with nine points.

NCCU redshirt sophomore Chasidy Williams made her offensive contribution with eight points, while grabbing six rebounds.

The Blue Hose hit the NCCU hardwood with a 1-1 record. Presbyterian lost to Virginia Tech (52-59) on Nov. 12, then beat Erskine (70-42) on Nov. 16.

Presbyterian’s Ronny Fisher is in his third season as the head women’s basketball coach. He is the sixth person to take the reins in the program’s 32-year history. He leads the team in its fourth year of Division I play and third as a member of the Big South Conference.

Mariah Pietrowski currently leads the Blue House with 26 points over two games, and led the team with 19 points in their win over Erskine. Pietrowski also leads the team in rebounding with 13 boards. Stevens follows Pietrowski in offensive play with 23 combined points, and 14 points during their last game. Burnside and Karlee Taylor tie in the rebounding game with 10 apiece. 

For more information on Lady Eagles Basketball or for up-to-date scores and statistics, visit the official website of NCCU Athletics at www.NCCUEaglePride.com.