February 24, 2003
FURMAN DOMINATES EAST TENNESSEE STATE 70-49
GREENVILLE, South Carolina -- A career showing by sophomore Laney Harris and a powerful inside-outside game keyed a dominating Furman performance Monday night as the Lady Paladins defeated East Tennessee State 70-49 in Timmons Arena.
The victory, which snapped a three-game losing streak at home, gave Furman a season sweep of the Lady Bucs, following an 86-64 victory in Johnson City, Tenn., on January 20.
In the first half the Lady Paladins connected on 44.4% of their three-point shots (4-for-9) and outscored the Bucs 18-8 in the paint to hold a 38-20 advantage at the break. In addition, Furman held ETSU to 23.1% shooting from the field (9-of-39) and outrebounded the Bucs by 10, 32-22.
Harris, who had three-three-pointers and 13 points in the first period, added two more treys in the second half to finish with a career-high 19 points. In addition, she claimed four rebounds and one steal while dishing off one assist. Sophomore center Jen Nadalin poured in 14 points to help the Furman effort, while Kim Lawrence and Deshara Shealey contributed 10 each. In addition, freshman guard Lauren Few totaled a career-high 13 rebounds on the night, igniting Furmanšs 57-42 domination on the boards.
The Bucs of ETSU were paced by Kiya Verdellšs 14 points, while Lauren Trantham claimed a team-high 11 rebounds. Misty Copas added nine points, while Tiffani Mayes and Trantham each totaled six.
With the win, Furman improves to 14-11 overall and 10-6 in the Southern Conference, while ETSU falls to 8-18 overall and 5-12 in the league. The Lady Paladins will host the Cougars of College of Charleston Wednesday night at 7 p.m. in the final home game of the season. ETSU will play Wofford on March 1 in their season finale.