University of Richmond Athletics
University of Richmond
George Washington
Twice As Nice, Richmond Downs GW Again
02/04/2009 | Women's Basketball
Feb. 4, 2009
WASHINGTON, D.C. -
Richmond (17-6, 5-3) defeated George Washington (13-10, 5-2) for the second time this season, 55-49 Wednesday night. The Spiders earned their first win at the Smith Center since Feb. 19, 2006.
Richmond, playing without leading scorer Brittani Shells, never trailed in the game. The Spiders went on a 6-0 run late in the first half to build a comfortable lead, 24-15 at the 1:33 mark. George Washington could never find its rhythm as Richmond forced 14 first-half turnovers.
"I am so proud of our girls," said head coach Michael Shafer. "We lost some kids to injuries, but found a way to win tonight."
Richmond led by as many as 13 after senior Johanna McKnight converted a three-point play to push the score to 36-23 with 14:06 remaining. George Washington would cut the lead to 52-46 after a made jumper with 49 seconds remaining.
"This game was really important," said freshman Abby Oliver. "Having lost two in a row, to come back and win is a huge boost for us. We played really well as a team tonight. This game gives us a lot of confidence going into Xavier."
Oliver and sophomore Crystal Goring each scored a team-high 10 points. Freshman Rachael Bilney added nine points and four steals.
Yolanda Lavender led George Washington with a game-high 15 points.
Richmond returns to action Saturday when Xavier comes to the Robins Center. Tip-off is slated for noon.
