Bristol, Tenn. (January 18, 2010) --- The Milligan College Women's basketball team lost a close game on the road to the King College Lady Tornado 58-51.

The first half consisted a lot of defense and poor shooting, as there were an even 64 shots taken and missed. The Lady Tornado shot 7-of-29 (24%) from the floor, while the Lady Buffs were 8-of-26 (31%). At the break, the Lady Buffs trailed the Lady Tornado, 22-21.

In the second half, Milligan improved to 12-of-30 (40%) from the floor, while the Lady Tornado was 13-of-30 (43%). The difference in the ball game, however, was the free throw line. Milligan, normally a 70 percent free throw shooting team, was just 53 percent from the line.

The Lady Buffs were led by Heather Mandela (Fairfax, VA) with 14 points and 14 rebounds, which is her second straight double-double and 11th of the season. Also lending a helping hand was Jamiee Hill (Johnson City, Tenn.) and Samantha Blevins (Spruce Pine, N.C.), both with eight points apiece. Blevins also had five assists which ties her career high.

“We have good three point shooters,” said Head Coach Rich Aubrey. “We were 10-of-20 from the 3-point line Saturday at Virginia Intermont and tonight we were only 4-of-22. It was a pretty intense game on both sides, and we made some shots, but just not enough to win the ball game.”

For the Lady Tornado, Ashley Deans recorded a double-double with 19 points and 13 rebounds. King's Beth Raby also pitched in 17 points in the win.

With the loss, the Lady Buffs slip to 12-8 overall and remain at a league best 5-2 in the AAC. King's win improves them to 10-8 on the year.

The next game for the Lady Buffs will be on Jan. 20, at home against Tennessee Wesleyan. Wednesday's game will be Milligan's first at home since Dec 5; tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m.