Elsah, Ill. - Tonight the Principia College women's basketball team played their season opener in front of a solid home crowed to kickstart the 2013-2014 season. Facing the Eutectics of the St. Louis College of Pharmacy, it was clear that the Panthers were suffering from some 1st game jitters. Some miscues on offense, and some missed assignments on defense kept Principia from finding a cohesive rhythm, but solid play from freshman guard Spencer Randolph and freshman forward Rachel Perea helped keep the Panthers focused. With some flashes of great play, the Panthers were able to keep in the game, especially with the help of senior captain Karina Olsen who attacked the boards and orchestrated some great offensive possessions. Principia couldn't quite close the gap by half time, and headed down to the locker room in a 6 point hole, 31-37.
The 2nd half showed marked improvement for the Panthers, with Olsen sparking the intensity (she had a game high 12 boards, which she paired with 12 points) and with the Panthers starting to put some stuff together on the offensive end. Principia still suffered from ups and downs however, failing to string together several solid offensive and defensive possessions. Going down by 14 at one point, the Panthers gave STLCOP several free points from the charity stripe (Principia shot just 9 free throws to the Eutectics' 26). Coming to the Panthers' rescue however was junior forward Summer Switzer who played exceptional basketball in her first collegiate game. Logging a career high 18 points, Switzer caught fire, shooting with confidence and hustling after every rebound in her vicinity (she had 8 boards on the game). In the final minutes, Principia made a strong push, but was able to take the lead, and closed out their home opener with a 65-70 loss. Other notable statistical contributions include Randolph with 18 points and 6 assists, and Rachel Perea with 10 points and 5 boards.
The Panthers play next in Wilmore, KY this Friday, November 22nd versus Asbury College. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 pm EST.
