ARCATA, CA - Kim Abts scored 19 of her game-high 25 points in the second half, helping Chico State pull away to a 77-65 win over Montana State Billings in the opener of the North Coast Inn Classic women's basketball tournament Friday.  Chico State entered the game averaging 106 points per game.
 

Chico State's defense forced the Yellowjackets into 26 turnovers, as the Wildcats improved to 5-0 while the Yellowjackets fell to 4-2 on the season. The Wildcats also gained a large advantage on the boards, out-rebounding MSUB 42-33.
 

Chico State led 35-31 at halftime, but quickly expanded that lead to 15 points with a 13-4 run to begin the second half. The Yellowjackets pulled within seven again on Michelle Lieber's layup with 12 minutes, 55 seconds remaining, but a three-pointer by Abts pushed the margin back to 10.

"It was a competitive game and I was pleased with our first half of play", said Yellowjacket head coach, Kevin Woodin.  We gave up to many transition baskets, but were still able to cut Chico's lead down to four at the end of the first half.  Kim Abts is a very solid point-guard.  She is fast and was a difficult task for us.  I think we need to rebound better as we had 21 offensive rebounds.  We also must protect the ball better so we can maximize our shots.  Chico is a quality team and it will make us better.  We need to play well in our next game against Southern Oregon Saturday night.
 

Also in double figures for Chico State were Lauren Himmelspach with 19 points, and Amber Simmons and Haley Ford with 10 each. Five Yellowjackets scored in double figures, led by Tanya Petersen's 15 points. Jenny Langford scored 13, Shannon Harvey 12, and Lieber 11.  Robyn Milne was also the only Yellowjacket to have double figures in two categories.  Milne scored 10 points and had 12 rebounds on the night.  Harvey made a career high four three-pointers against Chico with teammate Kayla Frize also making a career high four steals.
 

The tournament continues Saturday with MSUB playing Southern Oregon at 3:30 p.m. PST.  The Yellowjackets then return home to Alterowitz Gym Friday, December 17th where they will host Humboldt State at 6 p.m.