Nov. 30, 2001

Columbia, Mo.-Southeast Missouri State overpowered Texas A&M-Corpus Christi in the first round of the Unilever Lady Tiger Tournament Friday, 70-57. The Otahkians were 45 percent from the floor, including 59 percent from three-point range, while keeping the Islanders to shooting just 34 percent during the game. The game takes both teams to a 4-1 season record.

The game started slowly before SEMO steadily increased its lead to end the first half with a 34-25 edge. The Otahkians took control of the game by going 7-of-11 from 3-point range in the second half.

Christine Rathke, who led SEMO with 18 points, was 6-for-14 from the floor and 3-for-8 from behind the arc. She also pulled down five rebounds and dished out four assists. Lori Chase added 16 points, nailing four-for-four from 3-point range.

Kristin Rogers was the only TAMU-CC player scoring in double digits, putting in 6-of-14 for 12 points. Both Jessie Monlux and Jean Clark scored eight points in the game. Monlux was three-of-eight from the field and Clark was 3-for-13 scoring two from the free throw line. Kendra Smith led the Islanders with five rebounds.

SEMO Head Coach Ed Arnzen
"We're a scrappy ball club. We started out slow to begin with, but built up a nice lead toward the end of the first half. We jumped on top in the second period and went out strong. This was Rathke's first start of the season and she came out to lead the team in scoring. Chase came off the bench with four big three's that helped boost our game. She is an excellent player and played a nice game."

TAMUCC Head Coach Sheryl Estes
"Southeast Missouri outplayed us in every facet of the game. They executed better on the offense and played harder and did good things on defense. Obviously, our shooting percentage was a big problem. We had open looks that we didn't make and I think it affected our defensive abilities. We need to have leadership on the court and commit to play hard every night."