Vedvei makes return, but Mines falls

By Journal staff Saturday, February 16, 2008

JAMESTOWN, N.D. — Even Melanie Vedvei’s return couldn’t slow South Dakota Mines’ recent travails as the Lady Hardrockers dropped an 87-71 Dakota Athletic Conference decision to Jamestown (N.D.) College on Friday.

Vedvei went 0-of-4 from the field in limited minutes against the Jimmies. It was her first action since suffering a severe knee injury on Jan. 25 against Minot State.

Unfortunately, Mines couldn’t scratch its way back from a 49-30 halftime deficit. The Lady Hardrockers found their offense in the second half, outscoring the Jimmies 41-38, but it wasn’t enough to keep Mines from losing for the sixth time in seven outings.

Mines’ Jennie Malone hit four 3-pointers and led all scorers with 20 points. Loryn Schuetzle followed with 18 points and Bethany Holyoak scored 15 for the Lady Hardrockers (17-9, 5-7 DAC).

Lead-Deadwood graduate Amanda Rantapaa led Jamestown with 17 points. Giuli Varriano finished with 16 points, while Ali Edwards and Kellie Schuneman chipped in 10 each for Jamestown.

Mines plays at Valley City State today, with tip-off scheduled for 3 p.m. MST. Jamestown (12-13, 5-7 DAC) hosts Black Hills State, also at 3 p.m.