4/1/09 - Recap of 2009 McDonald's Girls Game

The West Team grabbed a hard-fought 69-68 victory in the opener at the BankUnited Center. The contest was close throughout and came down to a missed free throw with seconds remaining. Kelly Faris (Connecticut) was fouled as she was forced to take a desperation 3-pointer with two seconds remaining. After nailing the first two shots, the third came up short and so did the frantic comeback of the East Team.

In a game that was dominated by defense, the West Squad managed to get double figure scoring from only five players. Taber Spani (Tennessee), Christina Marinacci (USC) and DeNesha Stallworth (California) led the offensive attack with 11 points each, while Gennifer Brandon (California) added 10. Tierra Ruffin-Pratt (North Carolina) poured in 10 points and grabbed a team high 10 rebounds.

The East Team was led by Skylar Diggins (Notre Dame), who scored 18 points, grabbed five rebounds and nabbed three steals. Morgan Wootten Player of the Year Kelsey Bone (South Carolina) and TaShauna Rodgers (Georgetown) contributed with 10 points and five rebounds each. Kelly Faris provided an all-around solid performance, as she paced the East in rebounds with seven, added four points, three steals, three assists and two blocks in just 15 minutes of play.

For their efforts, Skylar Diggins and Tierra Ruffin-Pratt were selected as the John R. Wooden MVP's of the game. Unable to play due to injury, Stephanie Holzer (Vanderbilt) was given the Naismith Sportsmanship Award for her involvement in the week's events and for the support she displayed towards her fellow All Americans.