HOUGHTON, NY— Despite a 24-day hiatus from the hardwood, the Houghton Highlanders picked up where they left off in December, utilizing a stifling defensive performance and a well-balanced offensive attack to defeat the Penn College Wildcats, 71-27.
 
In the opening 10 minutes the Highlanders forced nine turnovers, while the Wildcats sank only one field goal, a three-pointer, and two free throws, as Houghton raced out to a 15-5 lead. 
 
Offensively, Houghton began to click in the second quarter, knocking down four-of-nine threes, while shooting 53 percent from the field, in route to a 37-15 halftime advantage.
 
The second half brought more of the same, as the Highlanders expanded their lead, outscoring the Wildcats, 34-12 over the final 20 minutes.
 
In all, Houghton limited Penn to under 20 percent shooting and forced 25 Wildcat turnovers, 15 of which came by steal.
 
GAME VITALS
Score: Houghton – 71 | Penn – 27
Records: Houghton: 12-0 | Penn: 4-10
Venue: The Nielsen Center, Houghton University | Attendance: 123

NOTABLE STATS
>> On the season, Houghton's defense has allowed 43.3 ppg on 29 percent shooting, while taking advantage of 24.9 turnovers per game.  Through 12 games this season the Highlanders have 100 more steals than their opponents.
 
>> Tabitha DeVries went 5-for-6 from the floor, scoring 11 points and collecting eight rebounds, five blocked shots, three steals and three assists.
 
>> Hannah Farley chipped in nine points, 12 rebounds and three assists, while Crysta LaCrosse and Marley Drake added 11 points apiece.
 
UP NEXT
The Highlanders return to the Nielsen Center on Saturday, January 6, when they will resume Empire 8 conference play in a tilt with the visiting Hartwick Hawks.  Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.