The University of Maine womens basketball team stayed neck and neck in the first half with ACC opponent Miami Friday evening, but a strong third quarter was enough to lead the host Hurricanes to a 80-70 win at Coral Gables, Florida in a first round game of the Miami Holiday tournament.
Maine would use 52 percent shooting in first half, including 7-12 from three point range to be tied 37-37 at the half. Blanca Millan poured in 15 first half points.
Miami ran off the first eight points of second half, and outscored Maine by 15 in a decisive third quarter. Miami (4-1), increased the lead to as many as 20 in the fourth, and held off the charging Black Bears down the stretch.
Millan finished with 21 points, four rebounds, and six steals for 3-2 Maine. Julie Brosseau also poured in 20, as the Bears saw their three game win steak snapped. Maine was plagued with 22 turnovers in the contest.
Erykah Davenport led the Hurricanes with 20 points and 11 rebounds.
Maine will play a consolation contest on Sunday at Coral Gables, facing Kennesaw State at 2:30 p.m.
