Box Score |  Notes

MILWAUKEE, Wis. (Feb. 20, 2010) - The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee women's basketball game conceded the first 10 points of the game and was never able to catch up in falling to UIC, 72-61, Saturday afternoon at the Klotsche Center.

The Panthers (10-15, 5-9 Horizon) pulled within two on a couple of occasions, but were never able to draw even after opening the game with a double-digit deficit. The Flames (12-14, 9-6 Horizon) were successful in finishing in the paint the entire game, shooting over 50 percent and scoring 48 points in the paint.

"We disappointed," Milwaukee head coach Sandy Botham said. "We were hoping to get two (wins this week). It felt like, especially here at home, like we could take care of business. We just weren't able to get into any sort of rhythm. I thought we had a lot of great looks. Unfortunately, that affects us defensively. When we're making shots, our defense picks up."

Junior Lindsay Laur led three players in double-figures for UWM with 16 points to go with eight rebounds and four assists. Freshman Sami Tucker tallied 15 points to go with four assists and senior Jodie McClain finished with 11 points.

Jessie Miller led UIC with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Jasmine Bailey scored a game-high 18 points, while Lauren Gatto also added a game-high 16 after scoring the first eight points of the game.

The Panthers were unable to get into an offensive rhythm throughout the game. They got plenty of looks, but were only able to shoot 38.7 percent in the game and 5-of-18 from three-point range. Milwaukee also committed 17 turnovers against the UIC pressure, but moved the ball well with 19 assists on 24 made baskets.

UIC managed to pound the ball inside effectively and shot 54.7 percent in the game. The team took just six 3-pointers (making two) and got to the free throw line 18 times (making 12). The Flames also won the battle of the boards, 36-32, despite Milwaukee being able to pull down 13 offensive boards.

After allowing the first 10 points of the game, the Panthers spent the remainder of the game playing catch up. In the opening half, they pulled within 30-28 with just over three minutes remaining in the half. The Flames then ended the frame on a 7-3 run for a 37-31 lead at the break.

Miller opened the second half the way she ended, with a three, to push the UIC lead to nine at 40-31. Milwaukee then responded with its strongest stretch of the game, rattling off an 11-2 run to once again make it a two-point game at 44-42.

The Flames then built its lead to 59-48 with an extended 15-6 run. UWM would get no closer than six down the stretch.

The Panthers return to action on the road this week, taking on Butler on Thursday in Indianapolis, before playing at Valparaiso Saturday.