Robert Morris Springfield Wins the USCAA Consolation Championship for a Second Consecutive Year
BROKEN ARROW, OK - #7 Robert Morris College Springfield won their second consecutive USCAA Consolation Championship on Saturday, beating Briarcliffe College 64-58. Robert Morris won the consolation round against Apprentice School in the 2007 Championship.
Robert Morris jumped out to an early lead against Briarcliffe and held the advantage, going into the half with a 17 point lead. They held that lead half way through the first. At that point, Briarcliffe got hot from the field and had several key defensive stops, chipping away at the lead and tying the game with just under two minutes remaining. Briarcliffe took a four point lead with only a minute remaining, but Robert Morris answered, tying the game with about 20 seconds left. Stephanie Brake, an Honorable Mention All-American honoree, had a key block as time winded down for Robert Morris leading to a 54-54 tie and overtime.
Robert Morris looked to be the more energized team in overtime and took a quick four point lead. Briarcliffe would add four points, but it wouldn't be enough to catch Robert Morris, who kept the lead and won 64-58.
Leading the Eagles of Robert Morris Springfield was Stephanie Brake who had 21 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 steals. Katie Fleetwood was also big for RMC inside, posting 15 points and 7 rebounds. For Briarcliffe, Leona Virgo had 23 points, followed by Helena Sergeant with 12 and Elisha Raiford with 7.
After wins over # 8 UC Clermont and #4 Bennett College, #9 seeded Briarcliffe finishes the tournament in the 6th position. Robert Morris takes the Consolation Championship award in 5th place.
