Cougars Claim First Conference Victory over AVC

Forward Monica Friedl finishes contest with 30 points and 14 rebounds

Cougars Claim First Conference Victory over AVC
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January 8, 2015

The College of the Canyons women's basketball team opened the Western State Conference (WSC), South portion of its schedule on Wednesday by securing a 62-56 come-from-behind victory over visiting Antelope Valley College.

Despite all the excitement surrounding the start of conference play, the Cougars did not execute well in the first half, as the team shot a paltry 36 percent from the floor while committing 16 turnovers.

As a result, Canyons entered the locker room still very much in the game, trailing the Marauders 29-24 at the half.

Head coach Greg Herrick's team vastly improved upon those marks in the second half, combining to shoot 41.9 percent from the field and committing just seven turnovers.

The second half also allowed an opportunity for freshman forward Monica Friedl to find her rhythm and have a major impact on the game.

With just under 10 minutes to play in the game and trailing 45-41, Canyons started its comeback run. 

Led by Friedl — who finished the contest with 30 points and 14 rebounds, including an impressive 22 points in the second half — COC tied the game with eight minutes remaining and never trailed again.

The freshman also converted 9-of-10 free throw attempts, while registering three blocks.

Sophomore guard Qimmah Russo scored eight points to go with six assists, while sophomore Amber Evans chipped in with seven points and 10 boards.

Canyons (11-5, 1-0) will next face Santa Monica College at 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10.