Though they shot just 35 percent from the field, the Sea Lions were an amazing 22-23 from the free throw line Friday in a 75-58 triumph over Montana Western at the Westminster Fall Classic. All-American Colleen Planeta led No. 4-ranked PLNU with 26 points, 17 rebounds and five blocks.
Planeta, a senior forward, didn't have the greatest shooting night, making just 6-of-16 from the field but she was nearly perfect at the line, sinking 14-of-15. She also dominated the boards, pulling down 10 offensive rebounds.
Three other Sea Lions chipped in with 10 points apiece: Amanda Franz, Avery Lee and Danielle Arriola. Liah Ector ripped six steals, scored six points and dished out four assists. Brianna Colon also had four assists.
“Montana Western is good and played really tough,” said Ector. “We weren't playing our best but we pulled together and brought it home. We are learning our roles but tough games like this will just make us better the rest of the year."
PLNU had trouble shaking UMW, just as in Thursday's season-opener versus Westminster. But also like they did against WC, the Sea Lions grabbed the momentum midway into the opening half and never looked back.
At the break PLNU led 39-29 and went on to outscore the Bulldogs by seven over the final 20 minutes of play for the 17-point win.
"We need to keep working hard," said Ector. "We are united on and off the court and that will carry us through."
The Sea Lions limited UMW to just 33 percent shooting and out-rebounded the Bulldogs 47-41.
Laura Geis scored a team-best 14 points for Montana Western (2-4) while Stephanie Dana and Kristen Luedtke added 12 and 10 points respectively, in the loss.
The Sea Lions wrap up their participation at the Westminster Fall Classic with a game versus Carroll (MT) Saturday at noon (MST).
