DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – The Saint Leo women's basketball team kicked off conference play with a win over Embry-Riddle University Wednesday evening, defeating the Eagles 77-66. The Green & Gold improved to 6-0 on the season and 1-0 in the Sunshine State Conference.

"Certainly, an exhausting and exhilarating game here in Daytona Beach. Embry-Riddle went toe-to-toe with us and competed for 40 minutes. At times they gave us fits" said head coach Anthony Crocitto.

The first quarter opened with both teams trading points. The Lions and Eagles both traded points three times throughout the quarter. Saint Leo kept the game tight throughout the first quarter until Alanis Diaz gave the Lions the lead at 14-13.

Amanda Ulrich has now led the Lion's offense in three-straight games finishing with a team-high 23 points. Ulrich was dominant in the second quarter, finishing the half with 13 points. "What an amazing game for Amanda, as she consistently brings it night in and night out." The Senior from Secaucus, New Jersey was 5-for-6 from the field and 3-for-4 from three-point range to open up the first half.

"Kiki McIntyre played 40 minutes and was pressured the whole game but controlled the tempo and that was extremely valuable for us tonight." McIntyre facilitated the offense for Saint Leo leading the Green & Gold with a team-high five assists. McIntyre led the defense with four steals. Jumoke Adaramoye led Saint Leo crashing the boards with four rebounds on the night.

Fifth-year players, Tamara Shash and Alex Button continued to play a huge role for the Lions in their win against Embry-Riddle. "Shash was great in the first half on both ends of the court creating a huge impact off the bench". The Lions' bench provided support for the staters, contributing 13 points. Alex Button has been great for the Lions' offense as the fifth-year guard contributed 18 for the Green & Gold.

The Lions shot for their best field goal percentage in the second quarter, shooting 58.33 from the field. The third quarter was when the sharpshooters came to play finishing at 75% from the three-point range.

Both teams finished with 25 points off turnovers each.

The largest lead of the night came in the fourth quarter for the Lions when they jumped out to a 13-point lead. 

The Lions will return home to host conference opponent Palm Beach Atlantic University, Saturday, December 3. Tipoff is scheduled for 3:30 PM.

For the latest news, updates, and information on Saint Leo Women's Basketball, 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.