Flashes complete second-half comeback in season opener

The Kent State women’s basketball team won its season opener tonight at Robert Morris, 62-57.

The Flashes (1-0) trailed 30-26 at halftime, but fought back to outscore the Colonials 36-27 in the second half. Both teams shot over 40 percent from the field and displayed offensive ability, but Kent State’s plus-10 turnover margin gave it the advantage.

Senior guard Rachel Bennett’s 14 points and six assists paced the Flashes. Junior center Ellie Shields received the start at post and added 14 points and six rebounds.

After recording the second highest 3-point shooting percentage in the nation last season, Kent State struggled from behind the arc, making 5-of-21 3-point attempts.

Kent State coach Bob Lindsay said the game was a display of the team’s perseverance.

“First games have a tendency to be ugly – and this one was ugly – but it was a win,” Lindsay said. “And I like the way we won. To be down on someone else’s home court and to come back was a credit to our players.”

Contact sports reporter Lance Lysowski at [email protected].