Gianna Messina Leads Tampa Over North Alabama in Season Opener

VALDOSTA, Ga. - With just one returning starter and a host of newcomers, The University of Tampa (1-0) women's basketball team continued its success with a 57-41 victory over the University of North Alabama (0-1) in its 2008-09 season opener. The game was played at Valdosta State University in its Tip-Off Classic.

After UNA built a 9-2 lead with 13:39 to go in the first half, Tampa battled back to take a 15-14 lead with just over five minutes remaining until halftime. The UT lead was then stretched to seven as it took a 26-19 advantage to the half.

The second half was all Tampa as it never trailed. The Spartans scored the first 13 points of the second half to take a commanding 20 point lead. UT held it comfortable margin as the closest the Lions got was a 14 point differential.

Sophomore Gianna Messina, a transfer from the University of South Florida, scored a team-high 21 points in her Spartan debut as she knocked down three long-range shots. She also led the team with nine rebounds and two assists.

Angela Guiu, Tiara Cook and Lauren Mason each added seven points while fellow USF transfer Caitlyn Mitryk grabbed six rebounds. Hailee Sullivan added two assists while Cook led the Spartans with three steals.

The Spartans will conclude their road trip on Sunday as it faces host Valdosta State at 3 p.m. UT will then return to Tampa for its home opener, which is scheduled for Tuesday at 5:30 p.m., versus Puerto Rico-Cayey. Fans may sign up for eScores, a free service that sends text message alerts at the conclusion of Spartan games. Please visit www.tampaspartans.com to sign up.