(EDWARDSVILLE, Ill.) Behind a career-high 24 points by Sarah Larson, the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville women's basketball team defeated No. 19-ranked Bellarmine University 73-56 at the Vadalabene Center this evening.
         The Cougars, 18-7 overall and 13-6 in the conference, came out strong in the first half shooting 48.6 percent from the field (17-35) and 62.5 percent in three-pointers (5-8) to enter the half leading 39-34. Bellarmine came out early in the second half and took a 52-47 lead with 12 minutes remaining. SIUE, who is 16-0 when leading or tied entering the half, maintained their composure and took the lead for good on a three-point basket by Misi Clark with 10:36 on the clock. The Cougars finished the game shooting 46.0 percent from the field (12-28), 50 percent from three-point land (9-18) and 100 percent from the line (6-6).
         Larson, who finished with a team-high 24 points, also grabbed eight rebounds in 28 minutes off the bench. Jessica Robert finished with 13 points and eight rebounds while converting 3-of-8 three-point baskets. Misi Clark and Jill Johnson also contributed with 12 points apiece. Johnson led the team with nine boards.
         Bellarmine, 19-6 overall and 14-5 in the conference, was led by Stephanie Hutchcraft with 18 points. Ryan Danner also finished in double figures with 10 points.
         The Cougars conclude the regular season at home on Saturday when they take on Kentucky Wesleyan at 5:30 p.m. in the Vadalabene Center.
                 -siue-