BGSU women’s basketball (11-9) (4-5 MAC) broke their three-game losing streak with a win over the University of Akron Zips (3-17) (0-8 MAC). Mainly in part because of Bowling Green’s success at the free-throw line and the opportunities they got.
“Got back in the win column, really competitive team in Akron,” said head coach Fred Chmiel. “Everybody contributed today.”
Starting the night with 14 attempts in the first quarter, going 10-14 from the line. Post Whistle is where BGSU found the most success. A difficult first quarter, scoring-wise, that showed a BG team relying heavily on free throws.
“We always try to get to the free-throw line, we’re a downhill driving team… we value free throws not just for the obvious but for those other reasons as well,” said Chimel.
BGSU would not score a FG until 6:15 remained in the first quarter, yet picked up the scoring later on in the game. The Orange and Brown would be reliant on the free-throw line all night, however.
Beyond the first quarter, free throws would be a common trend, which Chimel chose to highlight postgame.
“This is MAC play; this is physical. The further we go down the road, the more physical it’s going to be… If you can do that without panicking, you’ll be in a good place.”
Compared to Akron, Bowling Green had 15 more free throws attempted than Akron, with the Zips finishing the game 11-15 from the line. As in the first quarter, Akron would only have two attempts.
“Just being able to give there, it gives a break; we get sped up a bit,” said sophomore guard Johnea Donahue. She would finish the game leading BG in points with 21, while going 7-11 from the free throw line. Being able to attack the rim and draw those fouls just gives everybody a clear mind. Those are easy points to take advantage of.”
As a team, the Orange and Brown averaged 15.4 free throws per game coming into tonight. Donahue has attempted 77 so far this season and 11 tonight.
Donahue would not be a single-person show tonight, however, as she found help in her teammates to connect for 21 points.
“It’s a sisterhood… just being able to play with them on the court, it’s just so natural with them,” said Donahue.
Bowling Green is set to battle the Toledo Rockets on Saturday night at Savage Arena for their next opponent.
“Just ready for the competition… they have good fans; we have better fans. I’m just ready to go in there and compete,” said Donahue.
Falcon Media Sports Network will have full coverage of the Battle of I-75 this Saturday at Savage Arena. Lucas Kleimeyer and Adam Duffin will have the call on WBGU 88.1 FM with tip-off at 5 p.m.
