JimBob
01-14-2009, 10:01 AM
Cowgirls face Colorado in Big 12 home opener
Freshman Mercado says the team must pick up its intensity.
By LYNN JACOBSEN World Sports Writer
Published: 1/14/2009 2:22 AM
Last Modified: 1/14/2009 2:39 AM
Melinda Mercado received an education in Oklahoma State's 63-55 loss at Iowa State on Saturday.
"It's definitely different from high school and even from the nonconference games we played," said the freshman from Sapulpa, who also plays soccer for the Cowgirls.
"It was a whole different level in terms of intensity compared to the other games I have played in. It was a learning experience, not just for me but everyone. We definitely have to pick up the intensity."
In 19 minutes, she had three rebounds and committed three fouls.
Not known for her scoring, Mercado said she would like to change that.
"I know I can help this team defensively. I need to start trying to contribute on offense," she said.
She hopes for a better showing in the Cowgirls' Big 12 home opener Wednesday against Colorado.
The game features the top two scorers in the Big 12 in OSU guard Andrea Riley (22.3 points per game) and Colorado forward Brittany Spears (18.5).
Colorado ranks second in the league in 3-point field goal percentage defense (24.5 percent).
The Buffaloes hold a 26-22 edge in the overall series, but OSU has won three of the past five contests, including last year's game, 82-71, in Boulder.
Oklahoma State enters the contest averaging 78.5 points per game.
In addition to Riley, two other Cowgirls average in double figures: Tegan Cunningham and Shaunte' Smith at 12.0 points apiece.
Three Colorado players average in double figures as well. Following Spears are Kara Richards at 12.5 points and Bianca Smith with 10.6.
Freshman Mercado says the team must pick up its intensity.
By LYNN JACOBSEN World Sports Writer
Published: 1/14/2009 2:22 AM
Last Modified: 1/14/2009 2:39 AM
Melinda Mercado received an education in Oklahoma State's 63-55 loss at Iowa State on Saturday.
"It's definitely different from high school and even from the nonconference games we played," said the freshman from Sapulpa, who also plays soccer for the Cowgirls.
"It was a whole different level in terms of intensity compared to the other games I have played in. It was a learning experience, not just for me but everyone. We definitely have to pick up the intensity."
In 19 minutes, she had three rebounds and committed three fouls.
Not known for her scoring, Mercado said she would like to change that.
"I know I can help this team defensively. I need to start trying to contribute on offense," she said.
She hopes for a better showing in the Cowgirls' Big 12 home opener Wednesday against Colorado.
The game features the top two scorers in the Big 12 in OSU guard Andrea Riley (22.3 points per game) and Colorado forward Brittany Spears (18.5).
Colorado ranks second in the league in 3-point field goal percentage defense (24.5 percent).
The Buffaloes hold a 26-22 edge in the overall series, but OSU has won three of the past five contests, including last year's game, 82-71, in Boulder.
Oklahoma State enters the contest averaging 78.5 points per game.
In addition to Riley, two other Cowgirls average in double figures: Tegan Cunningham and Shaunte' Smith at 12.0 points apiece.
Three Colorado players average in double figures as well. Following Spears are Kara Richards at 12.5 points and Bianca Smith with 10.6.