Jan. 6, 2009

Box Score

FAIRFAX, VA. - Backed by 16 points from junior forward Brittany Ford, the Saint Joseph's women's basketball team capped the non-conference portion of its schedule with a 72-59 victory over George Mason Tuesday evening at the Patriot Center.

The Hawks started out quickly, opening a 14-3 lead as Ford tallied 10 points for SJU. A Ford layup at 14:38 gave Saint Joseph's its first double-digit lead of the game, while the Hawks' defense held the Patriots to just 1-of-8 from the field and caused four turnovers to start the game.

Leading 21-9, both teams would exchange baskets over the next few minutes before George Mason cut the Hawks' lead to single digits. With Saint Joseph's up 23-11, the Patriots used a 15-7 run to cut the deficit to 30-26 on a Brittany Eley layup at 3:35.

Saint Joseph's answered back through as freshman forward Kelly Cavallo's layup sparked a 9-0 run to end the half and give the Hawks a 39-26 advantage at halftime.

In the second half, Saint Joseph's opened up a quick 42-26 lead on a three pointer by senior guard Jenna Loschiavo, but the Patriot refused to yield.

George Mason chipped the deficit to single digits, but the Hawks responded, as a pair of layups by junior guard Mariame Djouara opened up a 70-52 lead for the Hawks with under three minutes left as they improved to 8-7 on the year.

Ford's 16 points paced SJU, with Djouara and senior Mary Kate McDade adding 12 and 11 points apiece, respectively, with McDade adding seven assists.

Brittney Wilkins and Brittany Eley combined for 32 points for George Mason (2-10).

The Hawks return to action this Sunday when they open Atlantic 10 play at home versus Temple. Game time is set for 2 p.m. at the Gallagher Center.