BG edges NIU to wrap up MAC title

3/2/2005

DeKALB, Ill - Ali Mann's sprained ankle got better just in the nick of time.

Mann and Liz Honegger each scored 20 points last night as Bowling Green State University's women won the MAC regular-season title with a 75-72 victory over Northern Illinois.

Mann, a sophomore, never practiced with the team Monday. She was not cleared to play until game time last night by coach Curt Miller.

Honegger also grabbed 12 rebounds as the Falcons and Huskies each totaled 38.

The victory had little to do with BG's top seeding in the upcoming MAC tournament but it gave the Falcons (20-7, 13-3) back-to-back 20-win seasons for the first time in 10 years.

Casey McDowell added 11 points, Kate Achter 10 and Tene Lewis chipped in with 5 points, 4 steals and two assists as the Bowling Green bench outscored the Huskies 25-15.

Northern (7-20, 4-12) was led by Stephanie Raymond (23 points) Jamie Wilson (16) and Keishonda Williamson (13).

The game had 23 lead changes and was tied eight times.