Jan. 28, 2010

Box Score

CHICAGO -- Julie Smith scored 24 points but a late run fell short as Utah Valley dropped a 72-59 decision at Chicago State in Great West Conference action on Thursday from the Windy City.

The Wolverines (4-17, 0-4) shot 55.6 percent in the second half but struggled to just 15.4 percent in the first half and dug themselves a hole they couldn't get out of.

The Cougars (8-14, 3-2) led by 19 at the half, 34-15, and stretched it to 20 with 13 minutes left in the game before a 12-3 run by UVU kept the game within striking distance. Smith hit a pair of 3-pointers and scored eight during the spurt.

Down 11 after the run, Utah Valley had multiple opportunities to get the game within single digits but could get no closer in the second half.

Smith scored 19 of her 24 in the second half while Jenna Johnson finished with 14 points and Asumi Nakayama had eight points and six assists.

The Wolverines were in foul trouble throughout the game, with Johnson and Erika Newbold, who was limited to 16 minutes, both fouling out. Chicago State got to the free throw line 34 times in the game, converting on 26.

The Cougars were led by 23 points and 12 rebounds from Courtney Waldon with her sister, Alyssa, adding 14 points and Natalie Marlowe adding 10.

Chicago State had a decided 45-28 edge on the glass, with 16 offensive rebounds leading to 15 second chance points.

The Wolverines, still seeking their first Great West win, now travel to Newark, New Jersey on Saturday for a 12 p.m. MT tip at NJIT.