State College, Pa., Jan. 18, 2003 -- Less than 24 hours after their victory over the Lady Lions in Altoona, the State College Lady Little Lions defeated the Sterling, N.J., Lady Knights at home 53-37.

While State College coach Bethany Irwin made no excuses for her players, she could not deny that the lack of time between games did have an effect.

"We were a little sluggish, but we got through the game," she said of her 13-1 team.

The Lady Little Lions established a 10-point lead near the end of the first period with Sarah O'Shea sinking the team's only three-point shot of the game.

Alima Williams came out strong for the Lady Knights, now 4-4, contributing seven of their nine points in the first quarter.

Fouls shots played a role in the Lady Little Lions' nine-point lead (26-17) at the half. Suzy Carlson made three of four from the free-throw line, in addition to two each from Katlyn Stupar, Nicole Scipione and Jessie Serafin.

The deficit for Sterling remained between five and 10 points for the duration of the second quarter, widening only to 11 three times in the third period with buckets from O'Shea, Stupar and Scipione, who led in scoring with 13 points.

"The shots weren't falling, so we really had to focus defensively," Irwin said.

Sisters Amanda and Katie Brennan dominated the third quarter for the Lady Knights, scoring seven points each. Amanda finished the game with 14 points, Katie with nine.

The Lady Little Lions increased their 42-31 lead at the end of the third period to a final 53-37 score throughout the final quarter with Carlson scoring three of her 10 points and Monika Fogelsanger making four of her eight. Fogelsanger also led the team in rebounds with nine.

"I think everyone is contributing and playing hard and being successful," Irwin said. "I think that's what we need."

State College's J.V. team stretched its winning streak to 71 games with a 70-34 victory over the Lady Knights. Jessie Serafin led the team in scoring with 14 points. Kelly Ashcraft finished the game with 10.

Both State College teams will be right back in action Monday night at Williamsport.