Montclair, NJ (November 17, 2001) – Behind a double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds from JASMINE BATTS, the Montclair State women's basketball team knocked off SUNY New Paltz 77-60 in the season opener.

The win marked first victory for first year head coach Jamie Hoffman, and the Red Hawks will face Emmanuel in the Pepsi Tip-Off Tournament tomorrow.

Montclair State jumped out to a 47-30 after the opening 20 minutes en route to the 17-point win. KATHY BARBERI added 16 points, while STEPHANIE ELLERBE and Kristen Gisondi combined for 24 off the bench. Ellerbe and STEPHANIE CROLEY paced the way with 13 rebounds, including nine on the offensive glass by Ellerbe. Steph Russo and Silver Williams tallied double-doubles for the Hawks in the setback.