University of Richmond Athletics
University of Richmond
Belmont
Richmond Downs Belmont, 65-52
12/30/2008 | Women's Basketball
Dec. 30, 2008
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -
Sophomore Brittani Shells' game-high 23 points led Richmond (11-2) past Belmont (7-4) 65-52, Tuesday afternoon in the final round of the Crimson Tide Holiday Classic. Junior Danielle Bell added 11 second-half points.
The Spiders opened the game on a 9-2 run and led by as many as 13 with the score at 16-3 at the 12:01 mark.
"In the first half, we showed what we're capable of doing," said Shells. "If we keep playing together, things will continue to work out for us."
Belmont went on a 12-4 run to close the half, but the Spiders still held a 26-17 advantage at the break. Richmond caused 11 first-half turnovers for the Bruins.
"Our defensive effort was much better," said head coach Michael Shafer. "We need to sustain our effort the entire 40 minutes. If we can do that, we have a chance to be a very good basketball team."
Belmont knotted the game at 32-32 on a Kristin Bunch three-pointer at the 14:35 mark. The Spiders would regain the lead at 37-34, thanks to a Danielle Bell three-pointer. Richmond would never lose the lead again. Bell finished her day going 3-for-8 from long range, with all 11 points scored in the second half.
"I came out ready to shoot," said Bell. "I tried to be patient and look for good shots."
Richmond outrebounded Belmont, 45-38. Sophomore Crystal Goring pulled down a season-best 12 rebounds, two shy of her career-high.
Amber Rockwell led Belmont with 14 points.
The Spiders return to action when they host #14/16 Maryland on Jan. 3rd in the Robins Center. Hall of Famers Karen Elsner and Pam Bryant will have banners honoring their storied careers at halftime. Tip-off is slated for 3:00 p.m.
