Rutgers’ D Stifles Lafayette in 69-48 Victory

Rutgers women's basketball continues to establish an identity at Jersey Mike's Arena after dominating Lafayette to the tune of 69-48 on Friday night. The victory moves Rutgers back to .500 (5-5), an improves its home record to 5-2 on the year.

Rutgers was lethal on both ends of the floor, especially on the glass where the ladies out-rebounded Lafayette 48-26. Anotonia Bates and Kassondra Brown each tallied 10 rebounds for Rutgers. Meanwhile Chyna Cornwell led the way with 16 points and nine boards.

"We talked to Antonia before the season even started about her being a defensive stallworth for us," said head coach Coquese Washington. "She is really embracing that. She just does so many things that just don't necessarily show up on the stat sheet, but what she brings to the team in terms of helping us operate is huge and can't be talked about enough."

Moreover Rutgers was opportunistic defensively, forcing 19 turnovers and recording 12 steals on the night. Rutgers converted that into 24 points off turnovers, and 20 points on the fast break.

Rutgers also used an 11-0 run right out of the gate in the second quarter to widen the lead to 15-points. Freshman Jillian Hueter had a huge three-pointer, while Cornwell, Lisa Thompson and Destiny Adams all contributed major buckets.

Rutgers returns to action on Tuesday when they face LeSale at Jersey Mike's Arena at 7 p.m.