MIAMI GARDENS, FLA.- The St. Thomas University Lady Bobcat basketball team welcomed the College of Bahamas to the newly-christened Fernandez Family Center Saturday for their season opener.  The Bobcats came out with a staunch full-court press and did not let up, winning 73-31.

STU's press forced 39 turnovers despite surrendering 18 of their own.  Tough defense and driving to the rim led the Bobcats to shoot 39% from the field and take a 41-17 lead into the half.

Not much changed in the second period as the Bahamas offensive struggles continued. COB shot under 30% for the game and was only able to hit 44% from the free-throw line.  To make matters worse for the Bahamas, STU won the rebound battle 45-34.

STU's Nickerline Montina led all scorers with 19 points on 9-16 shooting.  Cindy Castrillon added 11 points and 5 assists to just 2 turnovers, and Brianna Rodrigues scored 11 points in 10 minutes off the bench.  The Bobcats improve to 1-0 and will travel to West Palm Beach Wednesday to face Palm Beach Atlantic at 6 PM.