Jan. 16, 2003
Box Score
Missoula, MT--The University of Montana hit a school-record 12-three pointers to lead the way as the Grizzlies defeated the Idaho State Bengals in the Big Sky Conference women's basketball opener for both teams Thursday night at Dahlberg Arena.
The Grizzlies, who average less than five treys per game this season, came out firing from long distance early and often in the game. UM hit its first three shots, incluidng two three's in taking an 8-0 lead and never looked back. Eight first half three-pointers extended the lead to as much as 32 points before the Grizzlies settled for a 47-18 lead.
ISU's play improved in the second half as the Bengals were only outscored 32-29, but it was too little, too late.
"I don't think we met their intensity level in the first five minutes," ISU Head Coach Jon Newlee said. "It's not good enough for 1, 2 or 3 people to show up. We need 12 players playing the level they're capable of. We've got to come out Saturday (against Montana State) and play better."
Ashley Toner and Halli Hickman led the way for the Bengals with 10 points each. Hickman improved her Big Sky leading field goal percentage to 61.8 for the season by going 4-of-5 on the night. Laraine Skow led the way on the boards with nine rebounds.
Montana was led by a trio of players with 15 points. Lynsey Monaco, Hollie Tyler and Katie Edwards all had 15 points to lead the Grizzlies. Monaco had 11 rebounds to lead UM and post a double-double.
The Bengals fell to 4-9 overall and 0-1 in Big Sky play with the loss. UM improved to 10-4 and 1-0. ISU will return to action on Saturday when they travel to Bozeman, MT, to face Montana State, a winner over Weber State on Thursday, at 7:05 p.m.
