Flames sticking together despite setbacks

OMAHA, Neb. – Facing a program that's reached the NAIA national tournament in 13 straight seasons, College of Saint Mary knew its meeting with Concordia University on Wednesday might be an uphill battle.

It was, as the Bulldogs sped away for a 100-53 Great Plains Athletic Conference basketball victory at the Lied Fitness Center.

Yet, Flames Coach Natalie Miller is measuring success in other areas.

"The ladies are doing a great job of holding each other accountable in their mistakes on the floor, making quick corrections to each other,'' she said. "I think our unity is fantastic. The energy that our ladies have for each other, even down the stretch in deficits, is something that I love.''

CSM's inability to handle Concordia's full-court pressure in the first half did it in. The Flames committed 19 first-half turnovers to drop to 1-19 overall and 0-14 in GPAC play. The Bulldogs (9-10, 6-9), who have lost three games in overtime this year and three others by three points or fewer, raced to a 56-19 halftime lead.

College of Saint Mary cleaned up some things after the break, committing eight turnovers in the second half and outscoring the Bulldogs 19-17 in the third quarter. But it wasn't nearly enough.

Mia Stewart turned in a strong offensive game off the bench, scoring 16 points and grabbing five rebounds.

"Mia had a great game,'' Miller said. "She came in and hit some quick shots, so I'm happy with her efficiency.''

Miller praised Freda Moore for her fearless play and activity.

"She's one that's never afraid of the pressure of it,'' Miller said. "She just always does a great job of going in and always making things happen, instead of waiting for someone else to.''

Also for the Flames, freshman Maura Tichota grabbed a career-high nine rebounds and Madelyn Gaughen dished a team-high four assists.

CSM travels to Sioux Center, Iowa, Saturday for a 2 p.m. GPAC matchup with Dordt University.