Women's Basketball | 11/29/2009 5:02:31 PM

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - The Methodist women's basketball team used a 20-5 run in the first half to cruise to the 69-57 win over Virginia Wesleyan Sunday afternoon in the final game of the MU Cross Creek InnKeeper Turkey Shootout.

Both teams traded baskets early before Methodist (3-3) took the 8-7 lead with 15:52 to go in the first half. Midway through the half, the Monarchs took control and finished the half with the 37-18 advantage.

Virginia Wesleyan (3-2) kept the pressure on in the second half, but Methodist responded. With six minutes to play, Methodist senior Michaela Myers hit a 3-pointer as the shot clock was expiring to give the Monarchs their biggest lead of the day at 68-42. Methodist finished with the 69-57 win.

Myers led the team with 20 points while junior Dawn Sanderson added 14 points and nine rebounds. The Monarchs also picked up nine points a piece from senior Dezzire Gilliard, freshman Kahla Godette and freshman Christina Schrader.

Kristen Blalock led the Marlins with 14 points while Tonia Jones added 10.

Michaela Myers and Tonia Jones were All-Classic selections and Dawn Sanderson was named the Most Valuable Player.

The Monarchs will begin USA South conference play on Wednesday at Greensboro College at 5:30 p.m.

Box Score