LARAMIE, Wyo. --- Slated as an exhibition game for the South Dakota School of Mines women's basketball team, the University of Wyoming Cowgirls were able to keep the Lady Hardrockers in check, winning the NCAA Div. I bout, 87-38, Wednesday night in Laramie, Wyo.
A persistent Cowgirl defense matched with a powerful offense put the home team up by 17 points at the half, 37-20, and an overwhelming second half saw Wyoming outscore SD Mines, 50-18, in the final 20 minutes.
The Hardrockers had difficulty finding their stride offensively, shooting just 26 percent from the field, converting 16-62 baskets, while the Cowgirls could do no wrong, making good on 32-61 shots for 53 percent.
SD Mines got little production at the foul line as well, making only eight appearance and producing just two points. Wyoming was15-21 on free throws for 71 percent. Rebounding was another key to the game as the Cowgirls won that battle recording 50 to the Hardrockers' 29.
The biggest difference in the game was Wyoming ability to score points in the paint as they netted 44 points while SD Mines made good for 14 markers.
Individually, SD Mines senior Katie Strandholm led the visitors with nine points while freshman Devyn Asche tacked on seven and senior Hillary Hawkins was kept at bay with a six-point effort.
The Lady 'Rockers get back to regular-season action Friday traveling to Fort Collins, Colo., to challenge NCAA Div. I Colorado State. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m.