Kent State University
3-17, 1-8MAC
Eastern Michigan University
11-9, 4-5MAC
Turnovers Doom Women's Basketball in 70-53 Defeat
2/4/2015 9:40:00 PM | Women's Basketball
KENT, Ohio – Turnovers hurt Kent State (3-17, 1-8), as it was unable to keep up with visiting Eastern Michigan (11-9, 4-5) in a 70-53 loss.
The Golden Flashes struggled with ball control early, with a few shot clock violations due to the Eagles' oppressive defense. On the other end, Eastern Michigan took advantage of a successful three-point game and offensive rebounds giving them second chances to gain an early lead. Half way through the first the visitors were able to jump out to a 20-9 lead, forcing the Golden Flashes to call a timeout.
Eastern Michigan made seven three-point shots in the first half and scored nearly half its points (19 of 39) off of 13 Kent State turnovers to take a 39-24 lead at the intermission.
Back-to-back-to-back baskets by the Golden Flashes gave them a 6-0 run out of the break, forcing the Eagles to call a timeout to try to slow the comeback.
Kent State continued its charge and brought the lead within seven after Melanee Stubbs grabbed an offensive rebound and put it back in the net. However, Eastern Michigan soared on to take a 17-point lead to take a 70-53 victory.
The Flashes shot better than the Eagles in the game and rebounds were nearly even, but 23 points came on 21 turnovers for the visitors.
Larissa Lurken led in scoring with 16 points while CiCi Shannon picked up 15 rebounds and blocked four shots. Melanee Stubbs netted 14 points on a night, a point shy of her career high.
Kent State travels to MAC-East Division rival Ohio this Saturday for a 7 p.m. game.
