Nov. 15, 2009

Box Score

EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. - Milwaukee improved to 2-0 Sunday with an 85-60 victory over Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in women's basketball action at the Vadalabene Center.

SIUE evened its record at 1-1 with the loss. The Cougars shot 26.5 percent from the field and made 4 of 24 from three-point range. SIUE Coach Amanda Levens said the team was in position to make its shots.

"We just didn't knock it down. There's not much you can do coaching-wise when you get the shots you want and you don't make them," Levens said.

Danielle Bennett scored nine quick points in the first half for the Cougars and ended up the leading scorer with 19 points. She added a game-high nine rebounds. "We recruited her to play the way she did today," Levens said.

Jodie McClain led four players in double figures for the Panthers with 19 points. She was followed by 18 from Jenilee Klomstad, 14 from Ashley Imperiale and 13 from Anne Breland.

The Cougars forced 24 turnovers on defense and got a boost when Raven Berry stepped into the game late in the first half. Berry, who was battling an injury that occurred in the Morehead State game, came in and provided an instant boost.

"When Raven checked, it was instant energy. She gives us such an emotional lift because she is constantly and talking and has such positive energy. We were a different team when she was on the floor," Levens said.

The Cougar freshman scored 14 points and grabbed seven rebounds.

Levens said she also was encouraged by the play of freshman guard Courtney Kenner, who came off the bench for 10 points in 19 minutes played.

"Courtney had a great game for us as well. Five offensive rebounds from a 5-6 guard is pretty impressive. She's going to continue to get better as her confidence grows," said Levens.

The Cougars have another quick turn-around but must travel this time after having the first two regular season games at home. SIUE faces Valparaiso in a Wednesday night contest at 7:05.

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