Johnson County Community College
Press Release

College Information and Publications
913-469-8500
Julie Haas, Associate Vice President, Marketing Communications, ext. 3120
Peggy Graham, Writer, ext. 3425
Tyler Cundith, Sports Information Director, ext. 3122

1/21/09
Story by Tyler Cundith

Lady Cagers win two on the road

OVERLAND PARK, KS -- The Johnson County Community College women's basketball team improved to 10-7 on the season with two impressive road victories in a span of 48 hours. The Lady Cavaliers defeated Allen County 53-48 on Saturday, then posted a 70-45 whipping at Highland, Monday night. The two wins also have JCCC riding a three-game winning streak as they get ready to host Cowley College on Wednesday night. In both wins, JCCC held their opponent to less than 50 points scored. JCCC has held four of its last six opponents to scores in the 40s.

Against Allen County, JCCC appeared it would suffer a crushing road defeat. The Lady Cavaliers opened poorly and trailed by 11 at 32-21 at the break. The second half was all JCCC, as the offense got on track and defense held the Lady Devils to just 16 points.

"We really did not show up in the first half," said JCCC coach Ben Conrad. "We showed why this group of kids has to play right to win. To their credit they put together a real nice second half defensively."

Sophomore Danielle Shows continued her stellar play, finishing with her 12th double-double of the season. She had 12 points and 17 rebounds. Also, the backcourt production from Sasha Barnes and Crista Bechard were key. Barnes hit 6-of-9 shots, including two 3-pointers, and finished with 16 points. She also six assists and only one turnover. Bechard followed with 14 on 5-of11 shooting and two 3-pointers. She also dished out three assists.

Forty-eight hours later JCCC won another road game at Highland, only this time, came out and took control in the first half. The Lady Cavalier built a nine-point lead at the break, and finished it off by outscoring the Lady Scotties by 16 in the second half.

"Again, we guarded real well," Conrad said. "We shot it a little better than we had on previous nights so we had some cushion. I am very proud of the identity our kids are gaining on the defensive end."

Four players finished in double figures scoring for JCC. Bechard led the attack with a career-best 24 points. She hit nine field goals, six from 3-point range. She also had six rebounds and four assists. Barnes followed with a perfect night on the floor and had 15 points. She was 6-of-6 from the field, including two 3-pointers, and hit her one free throw attempt. Shows registered her 13th double-double, finishing with 14 points and 16 rebounds. She also had four assists and two steals. Freshman Melissa Nelson added 10 points and three boards.