FLORIDA GULF COAST LADY EAGLES DEFEAT UDC LADY FIREBIRDS 78-42

Ft. Myers, Florida: Leaving no doubt in anyone’s mind about their intent, the 12th ranked Lady Eagles of Florida Gulf Coast University throttled the University of the District of Columbia Lady Firebirds 78-42 at home in the championship game of the Independent Schools Tournament this afternoon. Holding the Lady Firebirds to 20 % (14-69) shooting, Florida went on to take the championship and possibly raise their visibility among the ranks of schools seeking a berth in the NCAA Division II South Region Playoffs.

UDC played them closely in the opening minutes, but fell behind at the 11-minute mark of the first half when Florida went on a 9-0 run, giving them a 25-14 point lead. With the lead firmly in hand, the Lady Eagles did not look back as they took a 36-18 point lead into the locker room at the half- time break.

The second half saw Florida take full command of the game as they expanded their lead scoring 42 points to UDC’s 24 points, while securing their 28th season win. Pacing the Lady Eagles to the win was Ebonie Halliburton with a double double of 15 points, and 12 rebounds.

Deidra Bumbrey led the Lady Firebirds with 12 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist and 2 steals. Jaime Brown followed with 11 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 steal. Jennifer Jones added 8 points, and collected 8 rebounds. Named to the All Tournament Team were UPR-Bayamon: Pamela Rasado; Claflin: Lakisha Griffin; UDC: Jaime Brown, Diedra Bumbrey; FGCU: Alex Nelson, Kate Schrader (MVP).

The Lady Firebirds (11-21) will play their final game of the season on Wednesday, March 1, against the University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown Lady Mountain Cats in Johnstown, Pennsylvania.