KISSIMMEE, FLA. - CIU women's basketball continued their winter road trip Friday afternoon, taking on NCCAA opponent in the Johnson University-Florida Suns. Friday's contest marked the first meeting between the two programs. The Rams entered the game 4-7 overall and 3-4 in Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) play. Coach Fleming's unit looked to bounce back after falling in their previous game to Edward Waters (Fla.) 81-57. The Suns, on the other hand, held a 0-10 record overall. The Rams ran away with this one early dismantling the Suns 84-45, to improve to 5-7 on the season. 

The Suns kept pace with the Rams through the first few minutes, with the game tied 9-9 at the 3:11 mark of the first quarter. However, CIU would take control thanks to a 13-0 run to close out the half (22-9). From there the Rams began to pull away with the game, stretching their lead to as much as 26 points to end the first half with a 43-17 advantage. 

CIU would continue to play suffocating defense, forcing turnovers and pushing the pace offensively in the second half helping add to their impressive lead. As a result, the Rams picked up a win with their largest margin of victory since an 80-26 win over Toccoa Falls (Ga.) on Jan. 17, 2016. 

Coach Fleming's squad dominated on both sides of the ball. Defensively, the Rams forced 32 turnovers, converting those into 29 points on the other end. CIU also shot the ball at a decent clip going 35-of-89 from the floor (39.35%). The story of the game, however, was points in the paint and bench production. The Rams imposed their will, outscoring the Suns 46-14 in that category. while 48 of the Ram's 84 points came from off the bench. 

The Rams saw offensive contributions from a host of players. Freshman forward Zhani Thompson came off the bench and posted a season-best 18 points to go along with ten rebounds to lead the Rams. Sophomore, Zion Neat would also have a big day, adding in 14 points and seven boards of her own. Jordin McQueen provided scoring off the bench with 12 points going 2-of-4 from three-point range. 

What Coach Danielle Fleming is saying: 
"Really loved how my team played together. Defensively, I'm glad we held them under our goal. Good momentum taking us into the new year. Proud of our team."

Up Next: 
The Rams will return to action after Christmas break for an exhibition on Dec. 30 against Columbus State University (Ga.).