If only it counted.

The NIU women’s basketball team built a 21-point lead early and never looked back in its 81-47 win over the Chicago Challengers – in exhibition play.

Nonetheless, Huskies coach Carole Hammerle was pleased with the way the team started the exhibition portion of their schedule.

“This team’s effort in practice has been unbelievable, and that transferred into the game tonight,” Hammerle said. “For a first game, this was a very good test for us. Now we want to build on this. If we continue to do this, we’re going to have a lot of success in our future.”

All 12 players on the NIU roster were able to play 10 minutes or more in the game. The Huskies forced 21 Challengers turnovers, which led to 22 NIU points. They also held the Challengers to 31 percent shooting from the field.

“Last year we overlooked the little things somewhat, but tonight we focused on every aspect of the game,” NIU’s Lindsay Secrest said. “Our defense and offense were very fluid tonight. We know we have the talent to succeed. Now we want to keep that confidence.”

The Challengers were held scoreless for nearly six minutes at one point in the first half.

Secrest led NIU with 16 points in the win, while Stephanie Smith added 12.

Playing in her first game since tearing her anterior cruciate ligament two years ago, Jamie Wilson was the only other player to finish with double-digit points. Wilson, a sophomore, scored 10 points and added six rebounds for the Huskies.

“This was the best exhibition for this team in my four years,” Youngblood said. “This is a very encouraging game for this team, and should give us a lot of confidence.”