The Rustler women's basketball team opened the season going 0-2 at the Casper College Classic Friday, Nov. 3 with Otero Junior College Rattlers, and on Saturday Nov. 4 against the Eagles of USU-Eastern.

The Rustlers fell behind the Otero Rattlers early on and fought to stay in the game, but fell short with the loss of 48-62.

The Rustlers finished the night shooting 29 percent from the field on 16 of 54 shots and 77 percent from the free throw line. The Rustlers out rebounded the Rattlers 52-35.

"We didn't shoot the ball very well, but I was pleased to see the rebounding and the free throws so high," said head coach Ken Swartz.

Marissa Arnold and Megan Krahenbuhl led the way with eight points a piece. Paulani Tarawa pulled down 11 rebounds to lead the team followed by Alyzae Roberts with eight.

The Rustlers finished the afternoon with 26 turnovers to the Rattlers 11.

"They didn't press us and we turned the ball over too much, we cant expect to win with that many turnovers, " said Ken Swartz.

The Eagles defense and great shooting was difficult for the Rustlers to overcome. The Rustlers finished the afternoon with 24 turnovers which directly lead to 26 points for the Eagles.

"We really struggled with their press and turned the ball over a lot which lead to buckets on the other end, said head coach Ken Swartz. "Defensively we have a long way to go, we didn't know where their shooters were and that really hurt us."

The Rustlers had two players in double figures. Paulani Tarawa lead the way with 13 points and eight rebounds. Alyzae Roberts recorded her first career double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds.

The lady Rustlers continue their pre-season play with their home opener Wednesday Nov. 8 at 5:30 pm versus Snow College.

Story by:  Mika Pinner