Saturday, November 19, 2011

FT. MYERS, Fla. – Sophomore Sarah Hansen knocked down a clutch free throw with less than a second remaining and recorded a double-double of 20 points and 13 rebounds to lead Florida Gulf Coast University in a 59-58 win over Big 10 opponent Michigan State in the Eagles’ home opener at Alico Arena.

Hansen led all scorers, shooting 5-of-8 from the field and 9-of-11 from the free throw line in 37 minutes. She also added two assists and two steals. Freshman Whitney Knight also scored 12 points for the Eagles on four-of-six shooting from the three-point line. Knight also added five rebounds, four assists and three blocks. Seniors Eglah Griffin and Courtney Chihil finished with nine points and eight points, respectively.

Lykendra Johnson led Michigan State with 15 points and 16 rebounds.

With the win FGCU moves to 2-1 overall, while the Spartans fall to 3-2 on the season. FGCU is now 2-1 all-time against the Big Ten and 1-1 all-time against MSU.

The Eagles, who led the nation in three-point field goals per game last season, knocked down 12 treys on the night. Six different players made at least one three-pointer for the Eagles, led by Knight.

The Atlantic Sun Conference is an NCAA Division I league with 10 member institutions committed to Building Winners for Life. The A-Sun meets the challenge of maintaining the highest standards in academic and athletic achievement with a true balance between student and athlete. Headquartered in Macon, Ga., the A-Sun boasts six of the top eight media markets in the Southeast. The A-Sun includes a blend of the most prestigious and dynamic private and public institutions in the region: Belmont University, East Tennessee State University, Florida Gulf Coast University, Jacksonville University, Kennesaw State University, Lipscomb University, Mercer University, University of North Florida, University of South Carolina Upstate and Stetson University.