Women's Baketball Struggles to Find Rhythm Against Panthers

By: Craig Heenighan

Posted: 3/2/10

The NSU women's basketball team came up short on the road against the Florida Tech Panthers as they were defeated 75-63 on Feb, 20.

The game remained close throughout the early exchanges as both teams looked to find their rhythm. A three pointer from junior Priscilla Perez pulled the Sharks to within two at 19-17 to the Panthers. However, this would ultimately be the closest the Sharks would come as the Panthers were ruthless executing a 17-3 run to lead 36-20 late in the first half. NSU did cut the deficit to 12 points but a late Panther basket gave Florida Tech a fourteen point lead at the break.

The game appeared to be going from bad to worse for the Sharks as they found themselves trailing by as many as 23 early in the second half. However, in true Sharks fashion the women stormed back into proceedings closing the gap to just ten points on two separate occasions. The Panthers were able to hold on for the victory with two late free throws.

Despite the defeat the sophomore Erin Zampell scored a team high 19 points, one point away from her previous career high. Freshman Rheisa Burke also contributed in the defeat with 11 points.

The Sharks conclude their regular season program as they face Florida Southern on the road. The Sharks' overall season record moves to 11-15.