FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 23, 2001

MONMOUTH WOMEN FALL TO MICHIGAN STATE

WEST LONG BRANCH, N.J. – Monmouth University’s women’s basketball squad hung close but dropped a 60-52 decision to Big Ten squad Michigan State on the first day of the Florida International University Thanksgiving Classic at the Golden Panther Arena in Miami, Fla.

Monmouth (1-2) trailed by just one point at halftime, 25-24, as the Hawks defense held Michigan State (4-0) to just 9-of-31 (.290) shooting from the field in the first half. The Spartans, however, were able to outscore the Hawks 35-28 in the second half.

Monmouth was led by Jewonda Bright who tallied her second consecutive double-double with 24 points and 15 rebounds. Michelle Cappadona contributed 17 points, six rebounds, four assists and three steals. The Hawks had trouble finding scoring off the bench as Monmouth’s starters scored all 52 points.

The Spartans were led by Syreeta Bromfield who logged a double-double with 20 points and 10 rebounds off the bench. Julie Pagel also booked nine points and 10 rebounds as a reserve. Vnemina Reese contributed 10 points, four assists and four steals.

Monmouth returns to action on Saturday as the Hawks battle Northwestern in a 5 p.m. contest.