WICHITA, Kans. – The University of the Incarnate Word women's basketball team dug an early hole against Wichita State on Saturday and never recovered, falling 73-63 in the Shocker Winter Classic Finale at Charles Koch Arena.
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
 
The Cardinals (0-9) committed nine turnovers in 40 minutes against Murray State on Friday, but equaled that amount the first 20 minutes on Saturday. The Shockers (5-5) took advantage, registering 15 points off turnovers in the first half. Wichita State shot a blazing 61.0 percent from the floor and controlled the paint in the opening frame, earning a 28-16 advantage on points in the paint.
 
The Shockers took a 45-28 lead into the break.
 
Wichita State picked up where it left off, scoring the first seven points of the second half to take a commanding 52-28 lead. The Shockers never looked back, cruising in the second half for the 73-63 victory.

THE BREAKDOWN

UIW shot 33.3 percent from the floor and 33.3 percent from three-point range, while allowing 45.5 percent and 25.0 percent respectively. The Cardinals earned a 45-39 rebounding advantage and a 22-19 edge on points off turnovers. Wichita State picked up a 33-28 advantage on bench points and a 40-24 edge on points in the paint.
 
LEADERS
 
Celia Garcia Paunero led UIW with 16 points, 11 boards and three assists. Cheyenne Berry scored a team-high 17 points, while adding seven rebounds and four assists. Cassandra Ramirez tallied 15 points and six boards, while Haley Frias dished out a team-leading five assists.
 
Rangie Bessard (19 points), TaQuandra Mike (seven rebounds) and Aundra Stovall (six assists) led the Shockers.
 
HONORS
 
At the conclusion of the Shocker Winter Classic, Berry was named to the All-Tournament Team.

UP NEXT
 
The Cardinals return to San Antonio for a home bout against LSU-Alexandria at 11:30 a.m. on Dec. 20.

STAY TUNED
 
After a break to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, UIW will host Texas A&M-Kingsville at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 28 at the McDermott Convocation Center.
 
For the most up-to-date information on UIW Athletics visit uiwcardinals.com. Be sure to follow UIW Athletics on Twitter @UIWAthletics and like UIW Athletics on Facebook at UIW Athletics.