Zach Anderson

The SDSU women’s basketball team took on Arkansas State University in a close game Nov. 9 at Frost Arena, with SDSU defeating ASU 77-67 in the season opener for both teams.

The Jackrabbits(1-0, 0-0 in the Summit League) built a 14-point lead with 11:38 remaining in the first half on a 16-2 run that would prove to be the difference. “I think getting the lead early helped us out a bunch,” Jackrabbit coach Aaron Johnston said, “because they had to dig out of a hole the whole way.”

It was a back-and-forth game that saw a lot of stretch runs by both teams. “Both teams were really tired at times,” Johnston said. “At times when our runs were going they were getting tired, and when they went on a run we were tired.”

The Indians(0-1,0-0) rallied to make the score 32-29 at the 3:54 mark in the first half. “We thought our team was pretty resilient, you know,” Johnston said. “‘Cause when you get up by 15 there, it’s easy to feel like you can coast. We didn’t get to coast at all. Arkansas State is a good team.”

Ketty Cornemann led the Jacks with 19 points, including going three of six from the three-point line. Maria Boever had 13 points and nine rebounds, just missing a double-double. Senior Andrea Verdegan had 11 points, making all eight of her free throw attempts.

For the Indians, Caroline Starr went two for five on three pointers and had 12 points to lead ASU in scoring. Kayla Pospisil had nine points and seven rebounds, and Angie Criner accumulated eight points and four rebounds.

“Different players made plays at different times,” Johnston said. “Kristin Rotert hits a desperation three, which was a big play for us. Ashlea Muckenhirn went 1-9, but she hit a big three in the second half.”

Junior forward Jennifer Warkenthien was in street clothes and unable to contribute. “I think it’s really tough,” Johnston said. “Not only do we miss Jenn’s ability and talents, but it really slides everybody to a different position.

#1.883095:4045391493.jpg:womensbball2JD.jpg:Ketty Cornemann who led the Jacks with 19 points, dribbles out of trouble in a 77-67 non-league victory.:Jon Dahmen