Bolivar, Mo. - The SBU Bearcats (7-9, 4-8 MIAA) had a strong team performance as they defeated the Lincoln Blue Tigers 63-60 tonight at Meyer Sports Center in Bolivar.  Senior Ashleigh Gallio lead the Bearcats tonight with 11 points and 7 assists while playing a team high 38 minutes in the contest.

To go along with Gallio's strong performance, the Bearcat women had three other players score in double digits.  Freshman Jacqui Zelenka posted 12 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals, junior Lakendra Smith scored 10 points and pulled down 8 rebounds, and sophomore Kourtni Williams scored 11 points.  "Tonight was the best energy for 40 minutes we have had all season" head coach J.C. Carter stated after the game. "Our bench had great energy, and I liked our focus tonight.  We need to keep it up."

As a team, the Bearcats shot 47.1% from the field, 38.5% from beyond the arc, and 76.9% from the stripe.

SBU will look to build upon this win as they travel to Missouri Southern on Saturday, January 29th.  Tip-off is set for 5:30 pm at Leggett & Platt Athletic Center in Joplin.