IRVINE, Calif. - Poised for the rematch of their stalemate 39-32 victory over Notre Dame de Namur University back in early January, the Concordia University Irvine women's basketball looked to get back on track Thursday night at CU Arena following a tough overtime loss Monday night.
Fresh off being ranked 10th in the NCAA West Regional Rankings for the first time in program history, the Eagles soared to victory in dominating fashion beating the Argonauts 70-52.
"I was happy with our energy, our activity, applying what our focus has been the last couple of days," said head coach Christine Collins-Kiernan. "When it is all said and done, attitude and effort is what you can control and from court to bench all 14 did that."
Coming off a tough loss, the Eagles got going early and often, holding the Argonauts to just nine points in the first quarter while putting up 16 of their own.
Junior forward Michaela VanderKlugt led the way with 22 points, 13 rebounds, and a team high six assists. Her second straight double-double.
"Michaela really let the game come to her," said Collins-Kiernan. "She had great reads, was active to open spots, and grabbed opportunities where she had the advantage."
"I felt I was in a really good rhythm," said VanderKlugt. "Coach [Collins-Kiernan] has been talking a lot to me about pace and picking my moments which I'm finally starting to do."
On a night where the Eagles shot 41% from the floor and went a perfect 12-12 from the charity stripe, the eye opening stat was their assists. On 26 made field goals the Eagles racked up 21 assists.
"Our passing was amazing tonight," said Collins-Kiernan. "21 assists on 26 baskets shows synergy, buy in, and trust. Being able to get multiple people to contribute and having confidence that their teammate will make the basket."
Junior forward Kennedy Fulcher joined VanderKlugt with a double-double, dropping 13 points and grabbing 10 boards (five offensive).
"Tonight's game was a team win," said Fulcher. "We shared the ball and committed few turnovers, compared to our last few games. Our press was also very effective, forcing them into costly turnovers. It was just what we needed coming off the tough loss against Dominican!"
Freshman guard Lainie James again found herself in double figures as she had 11 points to go along with four rebounds.
After Monday night's loss the Eagles knew that they needed to learn from it, but at the same time not dwell on the past.
"After our game Monday we as a team really had to self reflect," said VanderKlugt. "I think we got back to communicating as a team and moving as one unit."
Next up the Eagles have a rematch with Academy of Art as they look to avenge the overtime loss that occurred back in early January. The Saturday matinee is scheduled to start at 2:30 pm with the men's game to follow at 5:00 pm.
For the full CUI women's basketball schedule please click here.
