Second Half Comeback Falls Just Short Against Miami

Kourtney Brown has game highs with 27 points and 11 rebounds

Kourtney Brown

BUFFALO, NY – The University at Buffalo women’s basketball team erased a 17-point first half deficit, but the visiting Miami RedHawks hit two free throws with 16 seconds left to defeat the Bulls, 68-67, Saturday afternoon at Alumni Arena. Redshirt sophomore Kourtney Brown led the way with 27 points and 11 rebounds.

The Bulls got off to a quick start to the game, going on a 10-2 run over the first two and a half minutes of the contest. However, Miami responded by going on a 16-4 run of its own to take the lead with 13:36 left in the half. The RedHawks got their lead up to as many as 17 points with 1:02 left in the opening half before four quick UB points put the Bulls down 46-33 at the half.

Jessica Fortman

UB scored the first five point of the second half as it crept back into the game. Down two with 8:14 left, the Bulls took their first lead since early in the first half on a three pointer from senior Jamie Schiebner. However, over the next seven and a half minutes, the Bulls were unable to extend their lead by more than three points, an advantage that they had with 3:55 left. Miami cut the lead to one on a layup from Courtney Reed with 3:32 left in the second half and neither team scored again until Maggie Boyer hit the two free throws with 16 second left for Miami. The Bulls were unable to get a shot off on their last possession, turning the ball over.

Brown led the way with 27 points, her sixth 20-point performance of the season and completed her third double-double of the year with a game-high 11 rebounds. She also tied her career high with four steals and added two blocked shots. Sophomore Jessica Fortman had 16 points, seven rebounds and tied her season-high with four blocks. She also tied a career high with six assists. Brittany Hedderson added nine points of the bench.

Brittany Hedderson

Miami had four players in double figures, led by 16 points from Courtney Reed and 15 points from Jenna Schone. Lillian Pitts added nine points and nine rebounds.

The Bulls will be back in action this Wednesday as they begin a two-game road trip at Bowling Green. Tip off with the Falcons is set for 7:00 pm.