McConnell-Miller Era Begins With Bang

BOULDER-With a new coach for the first time in 23 years, and a new up-tempo offense, Colorado exploded for 58 first half points and ushered in the Kathy McConnell-Miller era with a 100-71 win over Cal State-Fullerton on Friday night a the Coors Events Conference Center in the season-opener for both teams.

Junior Jasmina Ilic and sophomore Jackie McFarland each had 17 points in the first 20 minutes as the Buffaloes recorded the sixth-most first half points in team history.

Senior Whitney Law dished out nine assists in the first half, breaking a 26-year old school record. Sandy Bean recorded eight assists in a half against Northern Colorado on Feb. 1, 1979. Law finished the game with a school record 15 assists, breaking the previous record of 14, which was done twice, last by La Shena Graham vs. Missouri on this exact date in 1998.

"Whit had a great game," McFarland said. "She was playing out of her mind, drawing defenders. When she plays like that, you just have to be ready for the pass."

Ilic and McFarland each ended the game with 34 points, both career highs, marking the first time in team history two players hit the 30-point mark in the same game. McFarland recorded her sixth career double-double, grabbing a personal-high 15 rebounds. Ilic also had a personal-best 14 field goals and tied a career mark with 10 rebounds.

"It is a great start for this group," McConnell-Miller said. It's always nice to get a win and I'm ecstatic to get to 1-0. I'm excited about the whole team as well as the individual performances. Whitney Law had a great game with 15 assists and really putting the ball on people's hands."

Colorado recorded its first 100 point game since a 114-52 win over St. Francis (Pa.) on Nov. 28, 1994. The Buffaloes hit 36-of-76 from the field and 21-of-29 from the free-throw line. CU also had a sizeable advantage on the boards, out rebounding the Titans 56-38. Freshman Caley Dow and junior Anna Nedovic each had seven rebounds.

Colorado will be back in action on Monday, Nov. 21, against Wyoming at the CECC, in a 6 p.m. game televised by Fox Sports Net Rocky Mountain.