William Penn Athletic News December 18

William Penn Women's Athletics

St. George, Utah–An impressive defensive effort paced the Penn women’s basketball team in an 83-59 win over Doane (Neb.) in the opening game of the Dixie State Classic Saturday.

The Lady Statesmen (10-4) are now six games over .500 for the first time since being 8-2 in the 1992-1993 season and it is the latest in the season the program holds such a mark since the 1989-1990 campaign (ended the year at 17-9).

Penn has also won five in a row, its longest streak since taking six straight in 1993-1994.

Leading from start to finish, Samantha Darley (Sr., Gilbert, Ariz., Mesa CC) and Rachel Butler (Sr., Orange County, Calif., Cerritos CC) topped the Lady Statesmen with 14 points each. Butler also pulled down a game-high nine rebounds and also led all players with six steals. Darley made four three-pointers.

Christa Subbert (Sr., Stanton, Stanton HS) and Orielle Thomas (Fr., Waynesville, Mo., Waynesville HS) also hit double digits with 11 points apiece.

The offense was not the story, however, as the team’s defense kept the Tigers (3-10) at bay by forcing 32 turnovers (34 Penn points off TOs). The Lady Statesmen were actually outshot 39.6%-38.9%, but held several advantages in made shots, including a 19-13 edge in free throws.

Carleigh Hobson (Sr., Lancaster, Calif., Antelope Valley CC) scored eight points off the bench, while Sarah Martin (So., Anthem, Ariz., Boulder Creek HS) added seven.

Randi Olson (Jr., Federal Way, Wash., Skyline CC) tallied four assists in the win.

Penn advances to take on host Dixie State in the championship game Sunday at 3 p.m.

Wade Steinlage