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KERRVILLE, Texas - Defense was key for Southwestern as they defeated Schreiner 70-67 on Saturday afternoon to remain unbeaten at 2-0. SU forced the young Mountaineers into 24 turnovers and recorded 10 steals in the contest.
Schreiner came out on a mission, scoring the first eight points of game before the Pirates got in on the action with an 8-0 run of their own, tying the game 8-8 just four minutes in. The teams traded baskets as the game remained tight throughout the first half until Southwestern broke away in the final two and a half minutes to take an 11 point lead, 42-31, into halftime.
As the second half got underway the Pirates continued to play well, holding onto a double-digit advantage through the opening eight minutes of the second frame. Schreiner steadily chipped away at the lead, pulling within one point, 62-61, with 3:20 on the clock. Southwestern went 8-8 from the free throw line from that point on to secure the win, 70-67.
Southwestern shot 43.2% from the floor in the game while Schreiner was hot all game at 52.3% from the floor. SU held the advantage from three-point range, however, shooting 37.5% to the Mountaineers 30%.
Chelsea Leeder led all scorers with 28 points on 9-12 shooting from the field, 2-3 from three-point range and 8-11 from the free throw line. First-year Annie Bourne added in 12 points and led all rebounders with eight boards. Schreiner's Melanie Cavazos had 19 points to lead the Mountaineers.
Southwestern brings their perfect record home for the first time this season as they face ASC opponent Mary Hardin-Baylor on Tuesday night. Game time is set for 5:30pm.