HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (January 16, 2012) – The Baptist Bible College Defenders entered Monday's game vs. Centenary just one spot ahead of the Cyclones in the Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC) North Division. Solid defense and clutch shooting helped the Cyclones prevail 67-54 in a game marking the midway point of the season.

The Cyclones started strong offensively, with junior Danielle Trucksess (Collingswood, N.J./Collingswood) connecting on an early three-pointer and leading Centenary with eight first half points, but it was a quick defensive adjustment that proved critical.

Baptist Bible's Kacee Rava came into the game leading the Defenders in points and rebounds per game with 13.7 and 9.1 respectively. Baptist Bible found Rava often in the opening minutes of the first half leading to 6 points and keeping the Defenders close. The Cyclones made an adjustment which called for a collapsing defense around Rava, minimizing the damage she could do.

Head Coach Justin Phoenix states the effects of the adjustment. "We made some adjustments to focus on some defensive principles. It worked. We got a few stops and got a few offensive opportunities which helped lift up the team a bit.

With Rava neutralized, the Cyclones continued to work the offense, slowly building a lead. Centenary, led by Trucksess and senior Hannah Ally (Phillipsburg, N.J./Phillipsburg) headed into halftime with an eight point, 38-30 lead.

Trucksess continued her sharpshooting in the second half as the Cyclones continued to hold the Defenders at bay. Baptist Bible did mount a charge, closing the gap, until Centenary received a clutch three point basket from senior Colleen Collins (Colmar, Pa./Lansdale Catholic).

"We got a key basket from Colleen [Collins]; A big three pointer off an inbounds play. It lifted the team and helped us cruise through the rest of the way," said Phoenix.

Collins' basket did provide a spark that would lead to the Cyclones stretching their lead as the minutes ticked away. Centenary would eventually expand the lead to 13 points and walk away with a 67-57 win to end the first half of the season. Phoenix is pleased with the progress his team has made and hopes they will continue to learn as Centenary pushes forth in the second half of the season.

"I think we are coming along. As with any team with high aspirations, there are going to be a few bumps that you can hopefully smooth out." Phoenix adds that he is pleased with the Cyclones' team atmosphere.

"I think each player is building confidence and trying to help another player become better. If anyone struggles, everyone knows that they have someone there to help them out.

The win improves the Cyclones' record to 10-5 and 4-3 in the CSAC. Phoenix and the Cyclones do not get to rest for long, as they host CSAC foe, Philadelphia Biblical University on Wednesday, Jan 18th at 7 pm.