The SIUC women’s basketball team defeated the Australian National Team 79-53 in an exhibition game Sunday afternoon at SIU Arena.

The Salukis were up 33-32 at halftime and took control of the game in the second half. One reason for the Saluki victory was the play of sophomore center Melaniece Bardley, who led all scorers with 16 points.

At one point in the game, there were five freshmen playing for the Salukis.

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Women’s basketball coach Cindy Scott said she had fun looking on the court and seeing the five freshmen do so well in their first game.

Five freshman on the court that is a little scary, Scott said. They all can play. It will be fun trying to figure out what to do with them all.

Guard Terica Hathaway led the freshmen with nine points, shooting 50 percent from the field.

The Salukis play at 7:30 p.m. Friday in the first round of the preseason NIT at Northwestern University.