Canyons Women's Basketball Opens Season in Winning Fashion

WALNUT, Calif. — The College of the Canyons women's basketball team got its 2014-15 season off to a winning start with an 84-80 win over Sierra College on Friday at the annual Mt. SAC Tip-Off Tournament on Friday.

Early season jitters plagued Sierra (0-1), and COC took advantage on the defensive end, holding its opponent to a mere 34.2 percent field goal percentage from the floor, while forcing 20 turnovers.

On offense, the Cougars were well balanced. Four of the team's starters scored in double figures, led by forward Nayiri Asianian who scored 18 points to go along with six rebounds, including an impressive 4-for-6 clip from downtown.

COC guard Julie Ilsby scored an efficient 13 points by attacking the free throw line, converting seven attempts and adding three assists and a steal in the win.

In total, the Cougars got to the free throw line often, but failed to fully capitalize on that strategy — converting just 56.8 percent of their attempts.

COC guard Qimmah Russo and teammate Monica Friedl rounded out double-digit scorers for the Cougars, with 14 points and 13 points respectively.

Canyons will next face Laney College in the tournament's second round, Saturday, Nov. 8.