Women’s Basketball Cruises To Win Over Boscreale, 116-65

POMPEI, Italy - Vanderbilt’s women’s basketball team concluded the playing portion of its trip to Italy by defeating Boscreale, 116-65, on Sunday evening.

Senior Chantelle Anderson and junior Hillary Hager led the Commodores with 28 and 27 points, respectively. The two combined to shoot 20-for-28 from the field and 11-for-11 from the free throw line. Anderson pulled down 10 rebounds, while Hager grabbed four.

Junior Jenni Benningfield and senior Ashley McElhiney both contributed with double-figure scoring outputs. Benningfield had 15 points and grabbed nine rebounds, while McElhiney chipped in with 11 points and six assists.

“We have a lot to work on,” head coach Melanie Balcomb said. “The effort to execute a new philosophy is there, and I’m excited about the possibilities. We just had seven days to practice, so we just need to clean it up. No one knows this offense, but I am pleased with the attitude, effort and desire.”

The contest was close following the first quarter, as Vanderbilt led Boscreale, 30-22. However, the Commodores outscored the Italian squad 31-17 in the second quarter to take a commanding 22-point lead. Vanderbilt continued to pour it on in the second half despite not playing it’s best basketball.

“We played pretty sloppy but that’s to be expected for the first time in a game situation,” Hager said. “The offensive style is different. It just takes getting used to ... but it’s fun.”