3-point barrage lifts Monroe past Union

ROCHESTER - An early barrage of Monroe 3-pointers was too much for Union County College to overcome, as the Tribunes went on to defeat the Owls 87-72 in the opening round of the Murph Shapiro Tournament Saturday.

MCC (5-1) was 8-for-10 from long distance in the first quarter and raced to a 27-8 lead after 10 minutes of play. Sophomore guard Torrie Cash was on fire from the start, hitting all five of her 3-point attempts in the frame while also converting a four-point play. Shalix Hines added a pair of 3's and finished with eight points and four assists in the first quarter as the Tribunes built a lead they would not relinquish.

Cash finished with 22 points and six rebounds for MCC. Sierra Green added 20 points and seven boards, while Lanay Rodney chipped in with 16 points. Hines compiled 15 points, six assists, four rebounds, and three steals.

Monroe was able to overcome 24 turnovers, as well as a 22-9 deficit on the offensive glass. The Tribunes finished 14-for-29 from beyond the arc on the day.