Story By: Erin Zollars
Photos By: Sol Tucker
College Park, MD–
After losing one of their top player Lea Bartelme from non-contact knee ACL injury during the November 13th game against Towson, they had Kaylene Smikle return today and not only did she make a difference in the second half, but the Terps had one of their best overall offensive efforts today against Princeton in an 84-68 victory over Princeton.
“Injuries are the toughest thing within a season,” said head coach Brenda Frese. “You just have to be able to help your kids, be resilient, and that’s why everyone has to continue to be ready to play.”
The Terps set the tone early in this game and they never let off the gas the entire game. Four players scored in double figures, led by 20 points from Oluchi Okananwa.
Maryland got a quick scare in the third when Addi Mack left the game briefly in the middle of the quarter due to an injury, but it was the return of Kaylene Smikle for a second game that made a difference. Smikle had eight points on the quarter, all of which came from free throws, fueling a 10-0 Maryland run.
Saylor Poffenbarger made a big difference in the second half today and finished with a career high 19 points. It was another three pointer at the 7:48 mark of the fourth quarter that made a huge difference late in the game as before the shot, the Tigers were within striking distance at 65-54.
Princeton made one more run with 2:30 remaining when Olivia Hutcherson hit a lay-up cutting the lead to 11 at 77-66.
Poffenbarger, hit a jumper off the Maryland timeout at 2:12 and basically closed out any chance the Tigers would get any closer today.
Next up for the Terps is another home game against Bethune-Cookman on Thursday night.
