December 28, 2002

BLACKSBURG, Va. - Using a 15-0 run to start the second half, the Virginia Tech women's basketball team defeated UT-Martin, 87-55, Saturday in the opening round of Tech's Lady Luck Classic.

After finishing the first half with a 13-point lead, the Hokies (7-2) dominated the second half, leading by as many as 36. Despite shooting over 60 percent from beyond the arc, the Skyhawks were unable to answer the balanced Tech attack. Defensively, the Hokies forced 13 turnovers and prevented the Skyhawks from attempting a single free throw during the second stanza. Offensively, the Tech bench scored 27 of its 39 points after the break, as each player got on the scoreboard for the Hokies.

The Hokies were led by Ieva Kublina with 17 points and four blocks. Also scoring in double-figures were Erin Gibson with 13 and Megan Finnerty with 10. Tech tied two tournament records, recording 23 assists and eight blocks as a team.

For UT-Martin, Amy Watson led the way with 23 points and set a tournament record by sinking six three-point shots.

The Hokies will be back in action as they take on Duquesne in the championship game of the Lady Luck Classic Sunday at 3 p.m. The consolation game featuring Loyola against UT-Martin will begin at 1 p.m.