WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – The Salem makes a quick return to the hardwoods on Saturday when the Spirits head to Raleigh for a USA South Conference clash with Meredith at 2 p.m.
Salem (0-14, 0-7 USA South) suffered an 83-52 setback at Pfeiffer on Wednesday evening as the trio of Kortni Pinion (16 points), Brina Bentley (15) and A'Mya McClain (14) recorded double-digit scoring performances to lead the Falcons to victory. The Spirits countered with 11 points from Sydney Bowen and 10 rebounds by Lauren Privette.
Bowen knocked down 5-of-15 field goals for a Salem lineup that finished 21-of-66 (31.8%) from the floor. Teammates Aubrey Slaughter and Shenell Pharr, who finished with eight points apiece, narrowly missed double-digit scoring. Privette led the way in rebounding by snagging six on the offensive glass.
That double-digit effort, which marks the 10th of the season for Bowen, allowed her to maintain her lead for the Spirits in scoring with 164 points. Bowen has converted 62-of-173 (35.8%) field goal attempts, including 22-of-68 from beyond the arc. Privette also maintained her lead in rebounding (123 total rebounds), as she has 76 defensive boards on the season.
Meredith (6-11, 2-6 USA South) snapped a three-game losing streak with a 68-57 victory on Tuesday, Jan. 14 at Methodist. The Avenging Angels took advantage of a double-double outing by Kate Perko (20 points, 20 rebounds) and a career-high 20 points from teammate Lindsay Bell.
Kate Perko leads all Meredith players in scoring with 297 points, converting 132-of-271 (48.7%) from the floor on the season. She has also converted 33-of-40 (82.5%) of her attempts at the free throw line. Kimberly Schuh is a close second for the Avenging Angels with 293 points, hitting 105-of-196 (53.6%) from the field and 78-of-105 (74.3%) at the charity stripe.
Perko has made her impact felt on the glass for Meredith with 197 rebounds, snagging 149 defensive boards. Schuh has provided the Avenging Angels with a solid presence in the paint, grabbing 117 total rebounds, including 51 on the offensive end.
For more information on Salem basketball check out www.salemspirits.com.