Dec. 4, 2002
The Santa Clara University women's basketball team lost its 2002-2003 home opener, dropping a close contest to Fresno State by a score of 62-55 Wednesday night in the Leavey Center. The loss snapped a 12-game home winning streak that dated back to February 17, 2001.
The Broncos (2-3) came out strong against first year head coach Michelle Bento's alma mater, jumping out to an early 11-4 lead with less than 11 minutes remaining in the first half. After the two squads traded baskets the remainder of the half, Santa Clara's lead dropped to five as they led 23-18 at the break.
The Bulldogs (3-2) continued to put pressure on SCU, but it wasn't until a Luara Garcia three-pointer gave FSU their first lead of the game at 39-38 with 11:46 remaining in the game. A jumper by Santa Clara's Kim Butler at the 8:11 mark gave the Broncos a 45-44 lead, but it would be their last of the game. From their Fresno State went on two separate 5-0 runs to pull away, eventually winning by the 62-55 margin.
Lindsay Logan led the way for the Bulldogs with her 20 points, followed closely behind by Aritta Lane's 16. Omelogo Udeze posted five points, but it was her 11 rebounds that provided a big spark for FSU. Lane chipped in with eight rebounds, five of which came on the offensive end.
Quinn Thomas paced the Broncos with her 14 points, followed by Tammy Annas' 11. Annas matched her career-high in rebounds with 11 on the night before fouling out late in the contest. Butler chipped in with eight points and six rebounds in the loss.
Santa Clara returns to the road this weekend, taking on the University of Tulsa Saturday at Noon. After another road game at Oregon, the Broncos return home on December 17 for a 7 p.m. game against Loyola of Chicago.
