PREP ROUNDUP : Philman Picks It Up, Leads Edison Over University for Tournament Title

Edison’s Marie Philman escaped early foul trouble and a dismal first quarter to score 25 points and lead the Chargers to a 64-53 victory over University in the championship of the Villa Park Tournament Thursday night.

Philman, who had two fouls in the first minute of the game, scored only one point in the first quarter, but Danielle Wiggins scored eight and the Chargers (6-2) took a 12-11 lead.

Edison Coach Dave White then decided to change the Chargers’ strategy on offense.

“Philman wasn’t getting open early,” White said. “So we worked in two and three extra passes and this opened up the offense.”

Philman took advantage, scoring 11 of Edison’s 14 points in the quarter. Even so University (6-2) hung close and tied the score, 26-26, on a basket by Raschielle Lawrence at the buzzer.

Quality defensive play and eight points by Philman in the third quarter allowed Edison to open up a 44-34 lead. Forward Julie Rechsteiner drew five charging fouls, negating Trojan scoring opportunities.

“Rechsteiner was, by far, our best defensive player tonight,” White said.

University was able to close to within three points with less than two minutes to play, but a basket by Rechsteiner, a key rebound by Philman, who finished with 14 rebounds, and four points by Kerri O’Bric put the game out of reach.

University guard Heather Snavely finished with 22 points.