January 16, 2003

NYIT Defeats Philadelphia University 64-60

Lady Bears Stop Six Game Losing Streak

Old Westbury, NY: The New York Institute of Technology Lady Bears (5-7, 4-5 NYCAC) defeated the Philadelphia University Lady Rams (8-4, 6-4 NYCAC) tonight in New York Collegiate Athletic Conference action.

Christina Papadapoulou (Cypress, Nicosia) scored a season high 25 points in the victory and helped the Lady Bears snap their six game losing streak. After opening a 33-21 halftime lead, NYIT allowed Philadelphia back into the game and the Lady Rams built a five point lead with just over six minutes remaining in the game. After a Papadapoulou free throw, Tamika Cox (Long Island City, NY) scored five straight points to take the lead back for NYIT. Papadapoulou would make eight straight free throws down the stretch to preserve NYIT’s lead.

The Lady Bears defense held Philadelphia to 38% shooting in the first half and out-rebounded the Lady Rams 49-35 in the game. Georgia Gordon (St. Ann, Jamaica) was the catalyst on defense shutting down scoring machine Samara Speakes, holding her to just 13 points and forcing her into nine turnovers. Freshman Nerisa Russell (South Ozone Park, NY) and sophomore Tiffany McDonald (Cambria Heights, NY) contributed off the bench with some stifling defense and rebounding, as NYIT limited Philadelphia to three offensive rebounds in the game.

Gordon recorded her 10^th double-double of the season, scoring 13 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.