Box Score

ITHACA, N.Y. – The Ithaca College women's basketball team (20-4, 12-1 Empire 8) hit the 20-win threshold for the fifth consecutive season with a 64-53 victory over Utica Saturday afternoon at Ben Light Gymnasium.

The Bombers placed four in double figures to maintain its first-place standing in the Empire 8. An 8-1 run late in the first led to a double-digit gap at intermission. The Bombers led by as many as 21 in the second en route to its 12th straight victory.

Senior Mary Kate Tierney recorded her ninth double-double of the season with a 13-rebound, 12-point performance. She neared a triple-double with a game-best eight assists. Classmate Jenn Escobido and junior Geena Brady each had a Bomber-best 13 points and senior Kathryn Campbell chipped in 11. Senior Elisabeth Wentlent added five assists and five boards.

The Pioneers jumped out to a 6-0 lead, but a Campbell jumper and a pair of free throws from senior Renée Metzger brought the Bombers within two at the 17-minute mark. Utica hit the next bucket to which Ithaca answered with 13 straight points for an infinite lead. The Bombers thrice led by nine, but the Pioneers pulled within 26-23 at 6:46. The Bombers held Utica without a field goal over the final seven minutes of play for a 34-24 gap at the half.

Ithaca powered ahead in the second, leading by as many as 21 at 13:40. The Pioneers surged over the final five minutes of play, outscoring Ithaca 12-5 to close out the game.

The Bombers shot 46.6 percent from the floor, while Utica hit 34.6 percent of all attempts. The Pioneers held a 40-32 advantage in rebounds.

Prior to the day's contest, Ithaca's five seniors, Campbell, Escobido, Metzger, Tierney and Wentlent were recognized for their contributions to the program.

The Bombers conclude regular-season action Saturday, Feb. 22 at Alfred.