Dec. 3, 2007

Box Score

WASHINGTON - The American University women's basketball team (5-3) used its home-court advantage to the fullest Monday night, defeating Monmouth University (1-6) 67-51. Three Eagles scored in double figures and as a team AU shot over 50 percent from the field.

AU used an 11-point run between the 17 minute and 13 minute marks in the first half to build a 10 point led at the break. The run was capped off by five straight points from Pam Stanfield who scored back-to-back layups and a free throw. The Eagles forced 15 first-half turnovers which led to 18 points and for the second-consecutive game shot over 50 percent (14-25, 56.0%) in the opening period. Liz Hayes led the way offensively for AU scoring 11 points on five of nine shooting.

American gradually increased its lead to 19 after the half. Hayes again led the team in scoring with eight points in the second stanza while Liz Leer chipped in six points of her own and Sahar Nusseibeh added five. The Eagles were 12 of 25 from the floor (48.0%) and limited Monmouth to just 9 of 33 (27.3%) shooting.

Hayes finished with 18 points, six assists, both game-highs, and a season-best five rebounds. Nusseibeh scored in double-digits for the second straight game with 11 points coming off the bench and was 5-7 shooting. Leer matched a career-high set earlier this season with 10 points, was a perfect 3-3 from the floor, 4-5 from the line and nabbed five boards. Freshman Ashley Yencho also set a new career-high with eight points off the bench, hit a career-high three shots from the field and tied a career-best with three rebounds.

Monmouth was led by Veronica Randolph who scored 15 points with three shots made from behind the arc and Marbely Montas who scored 14 and had a team-high four assists. The Hawks were limited to just 20-66 shooting (30.3%) for the game.

American will be back in action this Thursday, Dec. 6, when the Bears of Morgan State visit Bender Arena for a 7 p.m. tip. AU will look to defend its home floor where they are 3-1 this season. Tickets are still available for the game by calling 202-885-TIXX, or by clicking here.