DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – The Saint Leo women's basketball team returned to its winning ways on Saturday at Embry-Riddle. The Lions clipped the Eagles 79-73 inside the ICI Center to sweep the season series. The road Sunshine State Conference victory raised the Green and Gold's overall record to 14-7, 9-4 in the SSC. Meanwhile, Embry-Riddle's season mark lowered to 8-9, 6-6 in the SSC.

"This was a tremendous road effort," exclaimed head coach Anthony Crocitto. "We handled the constant energy and fight of a well-coached Embry-Riddle team. The SSC makes you work for every win and especially on the road."
 
Six Lions recorded doubled digit points in the win paced by Amanda Ulrich. Ulrich put up 21 points going 5-for-12 from the floor, 3-for-8 from downtown, and 8-for-9 from the free-throw line. She was supported by Tori Lesko who had a night with 17 points, a game-high seven rebounds, and five assists. Ayanna Trigg (15), Alex Button (11), and Kiki McIntyre (10) rounded off the double-figure offensive performances.

"Trigg and Lesko were nearly perfect while Ulrich was un-guardable at times," continued Crocitto. "These ladies continue to buy in and understand it will take a lot more work to get to the highest level obtainable. Alayna Harris has been working. She is working every day to be better. I'm proud of her progress and contribution."
 
Saint Leo got off the bus ready to play. The Lions outscored the Eagles in the first three quarters. The offensive burst was fueled by work off the boards. Saint Leo won the battle off the glass with 29 rebounds, 23 of which were defensive grabs. The Eagles snagged 23 total rebounds. In addition, Saint Leo had a tremendous shooting day going 52-percent from the field (26-50). Saint Leo saw 39 points from the paint, making 14-of-18 layups as a team.
 
In the opening minute of the fourth, Button drained a three-pointer while being fouled and made the and-one. Her opening four points tallied an 18-point lead for the Lions at 58-40. Embry-Riddle didn't go down without a fight. The Eagles slowly chipped away at the gap, making it a seven-point ball game with 44 seconds remaining. Despite bringing the game within single digits, Ulrich ensured the win for Saint Leo with six points from the free-throw line in the remaining time on the clock.

"We will get some rest and prepare for a hungry Palm Beach Atlantic team," concluded Crocitto.
 
Saint Leo continues action on the road. Up next, the Lions will travel to West Palm Beach, Fla. on Wednesday, Feb 2 to tip-off against the Palm Beach Atlantic Sailfish at 5:30 p.m.
 
For the latest news, updates, and information on the Saint Leo women's basketball program, be sure to visit SaintLeoLions.com. Fans can also stay up-to-date on the latest Lions news by following Saint Leo Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.