Saturday, March 26, 2005
Naperville, IL - Chicago's defense forced 25 turnovers and held off a late run to beat visiting Colorado 94-78 on Friday night at Merner Field House.

Colorado (16-7) jumped out to an early 15-4 lead behind three consecutive three-point baskets by Katie Cronin, Becky Hammon, and Carrie Bacon. Chicago came storming back as LaTonya Johnson scored eight consecutive points to help lead the Blaze on a 23-7 run to take a 27-22 lead with 8:33 left in the first half. Chicago went into the locker room with a 45-36 advantage.

Chicago (13-10) made just 39.5% (17 of 43) of their field goal attempts in the first half and connected on 1 of 9 three-point shots. Chicago's offense was in gear in the second half as they connected on 19 of 33 (57.6%) shots from the field, including 5 of 9 (55.6%) from behind the arc.

LaTonya Johnson and Tamika Catchings led Chicago's offensive attack. Johnson finished with 24 points, including 3 of 4 from behind the arc, while Catchings finished with 22 points, eight rebounds, six steals, and four assists. Ebony Hoffman contributed 16 points while Keila Beachem had 12 points. Chicago collected 16 assists in the contests and yielded just three turnovers.

Colorado was led by Becky Hammon who finished with 28 points (7 of 8 on three-point baskets), eight rebounds, and six assists. Katie Cronin and Carrie Bacon finished with 18 and 15 points, respectively. As a team, Colorado made 13 of 21 (61.9%) three-point attempts and connected on all 17 of their free throws.

With the win, Chicago finished the season with a 10-3 home record. Chicago travels to San Jose tomorrow night to conclude their regular season schedule. Playoff action begins March 31st.

The NWBL showcases professional women basketball players from across the nation, including players from the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) who choose to stay in the U.S. to play during the off-season. 2005 teams include the Birmingham Power, CHICAGO BLAZE, Colorado Chill, Dallas Fury, Lubbock Hawks, and the San Jose Spiders. For more information, follow the NWBL at www.triplecrownsports.com.

Colorado Chill Women’s Basketball – (970) 223-6644
Aaron M. Moore, General Manager