November 9, 2003

BLACKSBURG, Va. - The Virginia Tech made its' first seven shots and never looked backed in a 93-36 victory over Slovenia - WBC Ilirija in an exhibition game Sunday afternoon at Cassell Coliseum.

Tech jumped out to a 14-3 advantage and never was challenged in the contest. WBC Ilirija closed to within 17-11 with 13:16 remaining in the half but the Hokies put together an 18-0 run over the next six minutes to lead 35-11. The lead was extended to 53-19 at the half then Tech limited their guest to only 17 second half points. Tech set two exhibition game records in the contest for most points (93) and largest margin of victory (57).

The Hokies, playing with only eight players, were led by Ieva Kublina (6-4, Sr., F, Riga, Latvia), a first-team All-BIG EAST preseason selection, with 18 points, eight rebounds and four blocks. Erin Gibson (6-3, Sr., C, Galax, Va.) had 15 points and 12 rebounds, followed by Carrie Mason (5-7, So., G, Seneca, Pa.) with 14 points and freshman Kirby Copeland (5-10, G, Morrow, Ga.) who had a successful Tech debut with 14 points and seven steals.

Britney Anderson (6-0, Fr., F, Blacksburg, Va.) added nine points and nine boards followed by Kerri Gardin (6-1, So., Morgantown, N.C.) and Brandy Fowler (6-1. Sr., Cary, N.C.) with eight points each. Nare Diawara (6-6, Fr., C, Bamako, Mali) finished with seven points, seven rebounds and a couple of blocks.

Tech was 36-of-52 at the free throw line as the visitors committed 33 fouls and the Hokies dominated the boards with a 54-27 rebounding advantage. The Hokies' defense forced 26 turnovers which were converted into 36 points. Tech shot 50 percent (28-56) from the field while limiting WBC - Ilirija to only 25.9 percent (15-58).

The victory improved Tech to 9-6 in exhibition games and 6-1 under head coach Bonnie Henrickson. The Hokies have won six straight exhibition contests.

Tech opens the regular season Nov. 21 against Miami (Ohio). Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. in Cassell Coliseum.