Sports Reporter

Just when the NIU women’s basketball team seemed close to turning the table, the Huskies took a few steps back at Toledo Tuesday night. Fueled by a strong second half and 27 Huskie turnovers, Toledo cruised to a 73-45 win.

Freshman forward Jen Youngblood provided the lone bright spot for the Huskies (6-11, 2-2 MAC West), continuing her consistent play with team highs of 13 points and 12 rebounds. Lindsay Secrest added 10 for the Huskies.

“Jennifer played solid again tonight,” NIU coach Carol Hammerle said. “She seems to score every time she touches the ball.”

NIU was trailing 28-23 with 20 seconds remaining in the first half. Toledo hit a three that gave the Rockets momentum, carrying them into the second half. Toledo (10-5, 3-1) hit 6 of their first 7 shots in the second half, and outscored the Huskies 42-22 after intermission. The Rockets shot 56 percent from the floor, including a sizzling 65 percent (15 of 23) in the second half.

Senior center Mickey Johnson, who scored 6 points on 2-of-12 from the floor, fouled out late in the second half.

The 45-point total marks the Huskies’ lowest output since a 68-39 setback to No. 22 North Carolina State in November.

“I’m embarrassed by our performance and lack of execution tonight,” Hammerle said.