MARIETTA - In a game that was statistically nearly identical, Wilmington had the edge in made free throws as WC defeated 66-61 victory over Marietta Saturday.

While snapping one skid, the Lady Quakers continued its five-game winning streak.

Both teams were 22-of-54 from the field and 4-of-12 from the three-point line, but the Lady Quakers held the 18-13 edge in made free throws to earn its second OAC victory of the season. Wilmington marched to the line 30 times, while the Pioneers attempted 25 shots from the charity stripe.

Senior Shelby Kies (Maineville, OH/Kings) was pivotal down the stretch for Wilmington. The guard made all three free throws after getting foul to give WC a lead they wouldn't relinquish with 5:07 remaining. She had a steal that led to free throws and an offensive rebound that resulted in more WC free throws.

Kies' three free throws haulted Marietta's 8-0 run that gave the Pioneers its first lead of the second half.

"It was pleased with the way we held our composure after Marietta made their run," said Wilmington head coach Jerry Scheve. "Shelby Kies made some plays for us down the stretch."

Scheve also pointed out the defense of sophomore Courtney Tucker (Cincinnati, OH/Sycamore) and senior Bria Eslick (Cleveland Heights, OH/Lutheran East) for their defense on Marietta's primary scoring options late in the game. Paige Lamb and Heather Booth combined for just four points in the last six minutes.

Wilmington opened the second half by scoring nine of the first 11 points to grab its only double-digit lead of the contest. The lead hovered around a three-possession advantage until Marietta put its final charge against the Lady Quakers' lead.

Senior Brianna Peters (Alexandria, KY/Campbell County) dominated the first half by scoring 15 of her career-high tying 17 points. Along with Peters' stellar play in the opening 20 minutes, senior Emily Zimmerman (Beavercreek, OH/Beavercreek) turned in her best performance of the season.

"I thought that was the best half of basketball she has ever played," said Scheve.

Zimmerman nearly eclipsed her season total of eight points with her seven-point performance in the first half.
Junior Haley Howard (Uhrichsville, OH/New Philadelphia) added eight points, four assists and four rebounds, while sophomore Spencer Robles (Clyde, OH/Clyde) scored all of her seven points in the second half.

Wilmington (6-2 overall, 2-0 OAC) steps away from OAC and Division III action as they face Division I Youngstown State 3 p.m. Sunday.