Girls off to a good start

Mad Hatter · November 23, 2005

Bobo Posts Double-Double In 84-64 Victory

Courtesy: University of North Texas

Release: 11/22/2005

Courtesy: Rick Yeatts

DENTON (11/22/05) – Senior Erika Bobo recorded her fourth career double-double to lead the North Texas women’s basketball team to an 84-64 victory against Southern Arkansas on Tuesday night in the Super Pit.

The Mean Green (2-0) won its second straight game, while Southern Arkansas dropped to 2-2.

“I was pleased with the way we were able to come out tonight,” said head coach Tina Slinker. “Erika (Bobo) and Mian (Williams) really stepped up when we needed them. We still have a lot to work on. We need to convert our free throws when given the opportunities.”

For the second straight game, North Texas jumped out early and was able to hold off the Muleriders in the second half. The Mean Green was successful in getting the ball inside and forcing Southern Arkansas to commit the fouls.

“We knew they (Southern Arkansas) were going to be a physical team and that we had to get to the line,” said Bobo. “Getting to the line is the solution, especially if we are not scoring.”

The Mean Green made only 13 field goals in the second half but was again successful at the line. NT set a school record for free-throw attempts, hitting 31-of-51 from the line. In addition to last game’s 31 made free throws, the last time the Mean Green attempted or made that many was on November 18, 2000 against Central Florida when the team was 36-for-45 from the free-throw line.

For the first time in her career, Bobo posted a double-double in back-to-back games. She recorded 19 points, pulled down 10 rebounds and made a career-high seven steals. The senior was one of four Mean Green players in double figures. Mian Williams followed with 12, including seven points in the second half. Williams led the team at the free-throw line, hitting 6-of-7 attempts.

The Mean Green quickly extended its 41-33 halftime lead to double digits and always had an answer when the Muleriders threatened a comeback. After a three-pointer by Sharonda Davis cut the NT lead to eight, 62-54, with 9:37 left in the game, the Mean Green squad responded with a 20-8 run to extend the lead to 20.

All fourteen players saw action, including Amber Jackson who led the bench with 10 points and eight rebounds. Tricia Lee came in at the point guard position and posted seven points and five rebounds in 17 minutes of action.

“I thought Tricia and Amber really made an impact for us tonight,” said Slinker. “They both have a bright future ahead of them.”

North Texas takes to the road, competing in the New Hampshire Tournament on November 26 and 27th. The Mean Green plays Boston College on Saturday, Nov. 26 at 2 pm.