Junior forward Abreyln Rackley (St. Louis, Mo.) began her NCAA career in a big way, averaging 11.5 rebounds and 7.0 points against two teams that made the NCAA Division II Tournament a year ago.
Facing No. 21 Anderson (11/11), the team that the Lakers fell to in last year's tournament, Rackley was a huge factor in an impressive 84-73 victory. In 27 minutes of action she ripped down 15 rebounds, four offensive, and made it a double-double with 12 points.
While not as active offensively the following day against Wingate, another NCAA Tournament team, the 5-10 junior continued to contribute as Clayton State pulled off a 73-72 overtime victory. In that game she hauled in eight rebounds, including one that led directly to the go-ahead free throws with seconds to play.
Her 11.5 rebounding average was the second highest in the Southeast Region on the opening weekend, trailing only Catawba's Terri Rogers (12.5), who accomplished those numbers against Mount Olive and Barton.
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