Spartans Cruise to First Victory of the Season, 70-55

TAMPA, Fla. - The University of Tampa (1-0) women's basketball team opened their season by defeating Ave Maria University (0-1) on Friday afternoon at the Bob Martinez Sports Center.

The Spartans trailed throughout the first half by as many as nine points until taking a 35-34 lead just before halftime on a three-pointer by Catherine Matthews. Coach Jessee's squad capitalized on the Gyrenes' turnovers to close out the half on a 12-2 run in the final 4:12.

The second half was tightly contested with the Spartans taking a seven point lead at the seven minute mark. Leading 59-55 at the four minute mark, Tampa would close out the game on an 11-0 run to defeat Ave Maria 70-55.

Shamika Williams and Mariah Hodge led the way for Tampa scoring 15 points each. Williams chipped in seven rebounds, while Hodge recorded six. Illyssa Vivo and Juliana Cavalloro reached double digits for the Spartans contributing 11 and 10 points, respectively.

Tampa shot 59% from three-point range, led by Greta Barktuke, who dropped three out of four from beyond the arc. The Spartans scored 19 points off 17 turnovers by the Gyrenes, despite being outscored 11-3 in second-chance points.
The Spartans hit the hardwood again at the Martinez Center on Saturday at 8 p.m., to take on Virginia Intermont. Live stats and a webcast will be available through tampaspartans.com.

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