ARKADELPHIA, Ark. -- In its last non-conference tune up before conference play begins, the Pitt State women's basketball team (8-1) earned a 77-50 win over regional opponent Henderson State (2-5) on Monday (December 1) night.

The Gorilla defense held the Reddies to 28 percent shooting overall and 22 percent from long range. The Gorillas forced 18 turnovers, including 11 steals on the night, as they turned those turnovers into 17 points. 

Pitt State worked hard in the lane, scoring 40 points in the paint and out-rebounding Henderson State, 46-32.

Lizzy Jeronimus led the Gorillas with 23 points, in a game that saw 10 Gorillas on the court and 10 Gorillas score. Kylie Gafford added 14 points. Morgan Westhoff and Elena Flott each came off the bench to score nine points a piece. Flott and Mikaela Burgess led the team with seven rebounds a piece. Cathy Brugman paced the Gorillas with three blocks and Paige Lungwitz had three steals.

Pitt State never trailed in the game and allowed the Reddies only 12 first-half points. The Gorillas held a 37-point, 61-24, lead with 8:39 to go in the game. Pitt State put together four runs of 8-0 or more, including two 11-0 runs.

The Gorillas will finally play at home on Saturday, December 6, as they open MIAA play against Northwest Missouri at 1:30 p.m. in John Lance Arena.