Women's Basketball
11/03/2007 - Royals Open Season 1-1
Helena, MT- The Hope International Women's Basketball Team started the 2007-2008 season by going 1-1 against Montana Tech and Carroll College on the road in Helena, MT. Senior Jasmie Nault scored a combined 57 points in the two games.
Hope opened the season by facing off against Montana Tech. On the strength of Senior Jasmine Nault's team high 26 point and 5 rebound effort, the Royals pulled out the win 72-66. Senior Cynthia Hernandez also contributed 14 points and 3 assists. With the win, the Royals improved to 1-0 on the year.
In game two of the season, the ladies went head-to-head with the home team Carroll College- the NAIA's #7 team. Notorious for being a tough place to play, Hope took 31-28 lead into the halftime locker room. Unfortunately, the Saints' depth and foul trouble for the Royals was too much to overcome. The Saints remained undefeated and knocked off the Royals by outscoring them by 16 in the second half for 73-60 final score. Nault was again was the leading scorer and rebounder with 31 points and 8 rebounds. With the loss, new Head Coach Dave Ploog started his collegiate coaching career with a 1-1 record.
The 2007-2008 Women's Basketball squad features many familiar faces with 6 returners. NAIA Honorable Mention and 2 time All-GSAC forward Jasmine Nault leads the charge. Junior guard Sarah Nylander will keep the pressure on opposing defenses with a barrage of 3 pointers. Senior Cynthia Hernandez and Junior Stephanie Wenke will share time handling the point guard duties. The post area will be taken care of by Seniors Allison Wulff and Paula Reed.
Hope's four newcomers, all freshman, will make immediate contributions to the team's success as well. All-CIF guard/forward Brittany Philbrook will split time between bringing up the ball and posting down low on defense. Shauna Ricker brings a hustle to the game that is every coach's dream. Guards Kasey Martin and Grace Casale will raise the energy level of the team when out on the court.
The Royals will next play at home vs. the NAIA's #12 team- Lewis-Clark State. Tip off is scheduled for 5pm inside the Darling Pavilion.