March 7, 2004

Women Win RMAC Tourney

Steffen Sets Record 

            Kearney, NE – The Nebraska-Kearney women's basketball team (25-5) won its sixth RMAC Tournament title by defeating Fort Lewis, 59-44, Sunday afternoon in Colorado Springs.

            The Lopers are the fifth seed in the North Central regional, which will be played in St. Paul, Minn., and

            Like the RMAC tourney semifinal win over Regis, UNK turned to its defense to get the job done. The blue and gold forced 23 turnovers and held FLC to 30.4 percent shooting from the field.

            After shooting a subzero 24 percent from the field in the first 20 minuets, UNK warmed up in the second half, making 52 percent of its shots. The Lopers also sunk 12 of 13 free throws after halftime.

             Two threes by junior Taryn Ninemire helped UNK tie the game at 30 early in the second half. Ahead 38-36 with 8:22 to play, UNK went on an 11-5 run that sealed the victory.

            A three from senior Heather Steffen started the run and the spurt ended when junior Amber Whitlock forced a turnover and then Ninemire got the ball to sophomore Kalee Modlin for an easy layup.

            The Loper lead only grew from there.

            Moldin, who was named tourney MVP, had 20 points and 12 rebounds to lead the way. The Iowa native also went over 900 points 908) for her career.

            Steffen also made the all-tourney team as she had 10 points, five steals and five rebounds. Early in the game, she became UNK's all-time leading rebounder, passing Ginger Keller (894). The West Point native is now at 897 career boards. 

            Senior Allison Kruger was the final Loper on the all-tourney team as she had 12 points and five boards. 

            Amie Moulton led FLC with 15 points.