March 11, 2006

SIOUX CITY, Iowa - The University of Saint Francis (Ind.) advanced to the semifinals cruising to an 83-51 victory over Cardinal Stritch University (Wis.) Saturday evening in the quarterfinals of the 15^th annual NAIA Division II Women's Basketball National Championship. The 2006 event is being held at the Tyson Events Center/Gateway Arena in Sioux City, Iowa.

 

The Lady Cougars of Saint Francis shot a blistering 59.3 percent from the field in the first half en route to a 49-21 lead at intermission. Cardinal Stritch hit a three pointer on the opening possession took take the early. That would prove to be the only lead for the Wolves who shot just 22.6 percent from the floor in the half and 30 percent for the game. It was a big change from a night earlier when Cardinal Stritch hit on 42.9 percent of their attempts while defeating two-time champs Morningside.

 

Five of the nine players who scored for Saint Francis were in double figures. Megan Dossen led the charge with 22 points, going 7 of 12 from the field including 5 of 7 from beyond the arc. Other leading scorers included Cassie Reeder (14), Chivonn Keppeler (13), Nikki Lewis (11) and Tara Dice (11). For the game Saint Francis shot 47.5 percent from the floor as a team and dished out 14 assists.

 

Cardinal Stritch was led by Megan Pazdera. Pazdera finished the game with 19 points. Reid Shamiah provided a spark off the bench for the Wolves, scoring 17 points and pulling down nine rebounds. This was the 10^th appearance in the tournament for Cardinal Stritch. They finish their season with a record of 28-5.

 

Saint Francis continues to increase their tournament record of most all-time victories which is now at 20 in 10 appearances. This will be the third appearance for the Cougars in the semifinals. They will take on the winner of College of the Ozarks (Mo.) and Benedictine College (Kan.) in the 8:00 p.m. game on Monday, March 13. 

 

For more information on the Division II Women's Basketball National Championship log on to www.naia.org.

 

Box Score