Monica Zell (Fr.)

February 7, 2007 -- Led by a career-high 22 points from first-year shooting guard Monica Zell, Oberlin topped host Hiram this evening in a key North Coast Athletic Conference contest, 61-56. Zell netted a career-best six treys on 11 attempts and dished out three assists to help the Yeowomen improve their record to 6-16 overall and 2-12 in the NCAC. Hiram slipped to 6-16 and 1-12 in league play with the loss.

Eight out of nine NCAC teams qualify for the league's postseason tournament, and tonight's win over the Terriers greatly increases the Yeowomen's chances at making the event. Oberlin downed Hiram earlier this season at home, 57-54, to help Head Coach Christa Champion's squad sweep the Terriers in 2006-2007.

Oberlin actually trailed 51-56 with only 2:18 left to play in this evening's contest; however, an incredible 10-0 run by the Yeowomen that included two treys from Zell and four free throws from sophomore guard Alyssa Clark helped seal the late comeback victory. Oberlin didn't miss a single shot in the last three minutes the game.

The Yeowomen outrebounded the hosts 40-35 and shot a solid 42.9 percent from the floor. Oberlin won both halves as well, outscoring Hiram 27-25 in the opener and 34-31 in the finale.

Clark and senior captain Jessie Oram had solid nights for Oberlin, scoring 20 and 15 points, respectively. Clark also pulled down a team-best 12 boards and passed for four assists.

The Terriers were paced in scoring by Cassie Bedard, who netted 20 points and pulled down seven boards. Tania Carman also added 15 rebounds, four points, four assists, and two steals for Hiram.

Oberlin will travel to Ursuline College on February 9 for its next game. Tip-off against the Arrows is slated for 7:00 p.m.

Box Score