MCC Women Open with 96-25 Win Over Gateway

The MCC Women’s basketball team opened its 2008-09 season Thursday night with a 96-25 win over Gateway CC at East Catholic.

Former Manchester High All-State player Shanika Hines led all players with 21 points. The NJCAA second team All-American from last season also had 11 rebounds. Jhenel Franklin had a triple-double with 12 points 17 rebounds and 10 assists. Franklin, a sophomore transfer from Windsor, also had seven steals in her first game as a Cougar.

Freshman Erika Murphy (Torrington) had 17 points and 12 rebounds in her Cougar debut.

Robert Turner was happy with his team’s effort and intensity but sees room for improvement.

“We are nowhere near our real potential, but I see us getting there soon,” Turner said after his fourth opener as MCC’s head coach.

MCC started the game with 27 unanswered points and held a 59-11 half-time lead. Seven players scored at least 10 points.

The Cougars host Northern Essex Saturday afternoon at East Catholic. Tip-off is at 1pm.