Day one of the Smokey Ballenger Classic proved to be a rewarding one for the Otterbein women’s basketball squad, as they were victorious versus Frostburg State in their first of two scheduled games.
Neither team opened the game with much of an offensive attack, as both teams shot under thirty percent in the first half of play.
However, superb free throw shooting and the 2-3 zone defense used by the Cardinals proved to be the difference as they slowed the Bobcats tempo.
Leading the way throughout the first half was another solid performance by the Cardinals top four scoring leaders (Day, Miller, Piper, and Snedegar), combined for 27 of the team’s 35 points.
In addition, Otterbein capitalized on their opportunities from the foul line, as they connected on 12-13 foul shot attempts, as opposed to Frostburg State making 3-4 attempts.
As the second half opened play, the Cardinals scoring leaders continued their attack, as multiple transition baskets and tough play in the lane led to a boost in offense as the game played out.
Furthermore, Otterbein connected on multiple free throw attempts down the stretch, as they were able to close out the game with an 80-56 victory.
Otterbein was led by sophomore Maddie Miller who totaled a career-high in points with 17 (4-7 FG, 8-8 FT).
Sophomore Tabatha Piper followed with 13 points, while senior Hannah Day tallied 12 points and 7 rebounds.
Senior Rachel Snedegar chipped in another solid performance with 11 points and 9 rebounds.
Both teams struggled shooting as Otterbein finished the game shooting 37.5%, while conversely Frostburg State shot 34.4% from the field.
With the victory, Otterbein improves to 8-3 overall, while Frostburg State drops to 4-7 overall on the season.
Next up for Otterbein is their second game in the Smokey Ballenger Classic, which will take place December 29 at 6pm versus Thiel College.
