2005-2006 Highlights
Heikenen Named Blazer Athlete of the Week
March 22, 2006- Senior Forward Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn./Edina HS) has been named Blazer Athlete of the Week. The Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) and the Kodak Company named Heikenen to the 2005-2006 NCAA Division III All-American team. Heikenen was awarded for a fantastic senior year in which she was also named MIAC Player of the Year. Her 18.2 points a game and 6.9 rebounds a game helped the Blazers to a 21-6 record and a MIAC regular season championship.
Patrick Hooper, Sports Information Student Assistant
Heikenen Honored as All-American
March 17, 2006 - Today, the Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) and the Kodak Company released their selections for the 2005-2006 NCAA Division III All-America team. Senior foward Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS) was chosen as one of ten players nationwide to be recognized on the Kodak/WBCA All-America first team. Heikenen was chosen as an All-America honorable mention last year as a junior. However, as a senior she continued to improve and led the team on her way to becoming the MIAC Player of the Year and an All-American selection. Heikenen surpassed 1,500 career points and 500 career rebounds this season. She also moved up to fifth on the all-time scoring list in Blazer basketball history and broke the record for most career free throws made (380). Heikenen averaged 18.2 points and 6.9 rebounds per game as she led the Blazers to another MIAC title, a NCAA tournament berth, and a 21-6 overall record.
Only four others Blazers have earned the honor of Kodak/WBCA All-American. Heikenen now joins these four Blazers and Kodak/WBCA All-Americans in the CSB basketball history book: Laura Wendorff (1998-99), Kelly Mahlum (1992-92), Joyce Spanier (1990-91), and Jennifer Nash (1984-85). Press Release
March 20, 2006 - D3Hoops.com announced their 2006 women's All-America team. Last season, as a junior Heikenen was named to the D3Hoops.com All-America fourth team and followed up with a pre-season All-America second team selection at the beginning of this year. Heikenen met all expectations and passed with flying colors as she was honored as a member of the D3Hoops.com 2006 women's All-America second team. D3Hoops.com All-American Team
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
MIAC represented on D3Hoops.com All-West Region Teams
March 15, 2006 St. Paul, Minn. -- The Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) is well represented on both the men's and women's 2005-06 D3Hoops.com All-West Region Teams. Leading the way on the men's side is St. Thomas junior Isaac Rosefelt, who named West Region Player of the Year. Joining Rosefelt on the All-Region team is Macalester's Tom Conboy, Carleton's Dan Forkrud and St. Thomas' Bryan Schnettler. Saint Benedict senior Anna Heikenen was a first team selection on the women's side. Other MIAC women selected include Concordia's Melanie Hageman, Saint Benedict's Darby Noreen, St. Thomas' Erica Opdahl, and Carleton's Megan Vig. Full Story
Heikenen, Noreen Selected to All-Region team
March 15, 2006 - D3hoops.com has released its annual All-Region selections for the 2005-2006 basketball season. The College of St. Benedict Blazers were well represented by two players on the team. Senior forward Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS) and junior wing Darby Noreen (Avon, Minn. / Albany HS) were chosen to this season's All-West Region team. Heikenen, the Blazers' sole senior and captain, was named to the D3hoops.com pre-season All-America second team earlier this year and was recently honored as the MIAC Player of the Year. Heikenen made her mark averaging 18.2 points and 6.9 rebounds per game and was selected to the All-West Region first team. Noreen came off last year having earned MIAC honorable mention and continued to improve on her performance as she earned All-MIAC honors this season. Noreen avergaed 11.8 points and 4.1 rebounds per game and was named to the All-West Region second team. Heikenen and Noreen led the Blazers to a 21-6 record this season.
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Blazer Basketball Votes on Individual Awards
March 9, 2006 - Last night, the Blazer basketball team and staff voted to determine this season's player awards. The awards given out this season included Most Valuable Player, Varsity Most Improved Player, Junior Varsity Most Improved Player, and the Coaches' Award. Senior forward Anna Heikenen received the team's Most Valuable Player award. This came as no surprise to those who watched the Blazers this season. She was the sole senior and captain of this year's CSB basketball team. Full Story
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
MIAC Profiles of Excellence: Anna Heikenen, College of St. Benedict
March 2, 2006 - College Sporting News Story: Picking a college can be difficult for any high school graduate. It can be even more difficult for a star athlete, as they can be blinded by the allure of a scholarship - full or partial. Some will accept a scholarship without fully evaluating the situation they are getting into. Once they get to college, they realize that the things about their sport and life that mean the most to them aren't at the school they chose. Some of them muddle through, while others transfer to a place where they reconnect with those core values. Among those who transferred from a scholarship school and found happiness is Anna Heikenen, who transferred to the College of St. Benedict. Full Sporting News Story
Blazers Can't Fight Off the Storm
March 3, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (21-6 overall, 17-4 MIAC) began the NCAA Division III national tournament tonight against Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa. Unfortunately for the Blazers, the Storm were just a little too strong as they defeated Saint Ben's 73-70 in the first round of the tournament. CSB and Simpson fought back and forth without an advantage for the first 15 minutes of play. At that time, the Blazers went on a 10-2 run that marked the first half. Saint Ben's went into halftime with a 44-36 lead over Simpson. Early in the second half, the Blazers gained an 11 point lead, the biggest deficit of the game. However, the Storm used the next 10 minutes to claw their way back into the ball game. With six minutes remaining in the second period, Simpson took a lead that they would hold onto for the remainder of the game. The Storm were able to hang on their lead and a three point victory. The Blazers were led in scoring by junior wing Darby Noreen (Avon, Minn. / Albany HS) with 19 points. Senior forward Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS) contributed 15 points, while jhttp://www.csbsju.edu/csbsports/basketball/profiles/anna_heikenen.htm unior point guard Katie Kempe (St. Paul, Minn. / Cretin-Derham Hall) chipped in 11. Stats
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Blazers Come Up Short Against Simpson
March 3, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (17-4 MIAC, 21-6 Overall) was defeated by Simpson College 73-70 in the opening round of the West region of the NCAA Division III Women's Basketball Tournament held at Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa. The game, which was a re-match of last year's opening round game in which CSB defeated Simpson 80-63 at Claire Lynch Hall, was fast paced and full of lead changes. 20 lead changes among other highlights made this game a signature NCAA basketball tournament game. Full Story | Results
Tom Mix, Sports Information Student Assistant
Saint Ben's Seeks Better Effort Against Simpson
March 3, 2006 - St. Cloud Times Story: For Anna Heikenen and her teammates on the College of St. Benedict basketball team, tonight's NCAA Division III first-round tournament matchup with Simpson feels like a second chance. The Blazers (21-5) entered last week's MIAC tournament as the No. 1 seed, but were upset 74-73 in overtime by No. 4 seed Carleton in the semifinals. That meant Heikenen and company had to wait until the Division III tournament pairings were announced to find out if they received an at-large bid to keep their season alive. They did, of course. As a result, St. Benedict will take on the Storm (23-4) at 7:30 p.m. today at Cowles Fieldhouse in Indianola, Iowa. Full Times Story | NCAA Blazer Basketball Release
Heikenen Named MIAC Player of the Year, Other Blazers Recognized
March. 1, 2006 - The Saint Ben's basketball team (17-4 MIAC, 21-5 Overall) recorded another MIAC championship year, and with such an achievement comes individual player honors, which were announced today by the MIAC office. Senior All-American Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn. / Edina H.S.) was awarded MIAC Women's Basketball Player of the Year honors making her the fourth player at Saint Ben's to recieve that distinction. The three previous athletes to be awarded player of the year honors in the MIAC were Michelle Barlau (2002-03), Laura Wendorff (1998-99) and Daniell Guse (1994-95). Heikenen was second in the MIAC in scoring (18.3 ppg), seventh in total rebounding (6.9 rpg) and first in offensive rebounding collecting an average of 3.63 per game. Full Story | MIAC Award's Page | Blazer Basketball NCAA Release
Tom Mix, Sports Information Student Assistant
Blazers Happily Return to the Court
February 28, 2006 - St. Cloud Times Story: Anna Heikenen spent last weekend worried she had played her last college basketball game. Despite a 74-73 overtime loss to Carleton in the MIAC tournament semifinals last Wednesday at Claire Lynch Hall, Heikenen and her College of St. Benedict teammates still seemed likely to receive one of the 21 at-large bids available to the 63-team NCAA Division III tournament field. The Blazers (21-5) were the MIAC's regular season champion, and were ranked No. 3 in the most recent West Region poll. But Heikenen knows that nothing is certain for teams that don't win their conference tournaments, and the senior post was anxious right up to the time she received word Sunday night that St. Benedict had indeed been selected. Full Times Story
Blazers Revisit Simpson
February 28, 2006 - St. Cloud Times Story: For the second straight season, the College of St. Benedict basketball team will take on Simpson (Iowa) in the first round of the NCAA Division III tournament. The Blazers — who beat the Storm 80-63 last season at Claire Lynch Hall — found out Monday morning that they will be traveling to Indianola, Iowa for the rematch. St. Benedict (21-5) and Simpson (23-4) will meet at 7:30 p.m. Friday in the second of two first-round games at Simpson's Cowles Fieldhouse. The Blazers are the MIAC's regular-season champion, while the Storm won both the regular season and postseason titles in the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. Full Times Story
CSB Heading to Simpson
February 27, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team will play Simpson College on Friday Mar. 3 at 7:30 p.m. in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament hosted by Simpson College. If the Blazers win they will play the winner of Wis. Stout and Concordia-Moorhead on Saturday, Mar. 4 at 7 p.m. The game against Simpson College and the possible second round game will be broadcasted on WJON AM 1240 Radio. Basketball | Simpson College Release
Tom Mix, Sports Information Student Assistant
Blazers Earn Berth in Tourney
February 26, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (21-5 overall, 17-4 MIAC) will compete in this year's NCAA Division III tournament. Tonight, the Blazers heard the good news that they had earned a berth in the national tournament. At this time, most of the details of the national tournament are undisclosed. On Monday, the pairings of the tourney will be decided and released. When these pairings are determined, the Blazers will find out who, when, and where they begin their hopeful tourney run.
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Blazers Lose in Overtime Thriller
February 22, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (21-5 overall, 17-4 MIAC) was defeated by the Carleton Knights 74-73 in the MIAC semifinal contest. Early in the game, the Blazers took the lead and held on for as long as possible. Saint Ben's scored the first five points of the game and gained a 15-6 advantage just five minutes into the game. The remainder of the first period was a battle to determine who would have the momentum going into halftime. Full Story | Stats
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Heikenen Named MIAC Player of the Week
February 20, 2006 - College of Saint Benedict senior forward Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn. ) coming back from a knee injury that sidelined her the previous week, Heikenen averaged 18.5 ppg, 6.5 rpg and shot 58% from the field and 90% from the line to lead the Blazers to a 2-0 week and the outright MIAC championship. In Saturday's pivotal 70-60 win at Gustavus, she had 17 points, five rebounds and two assists and made her 372nd career free throw, a new school record. She also had 20 points and eight rebounds in Wednesday's win over Augsburg. Totals 14 for 24 (.583) 9 for 10 FT (.900) 13 R (6.5) 37 pts (18.5 ppg).
Blazers Stop Gusties, Clinch MIAC Title
February 18, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (21-4 overall, 17-3 MIAC) was able to gain revenge on Gustavus and secure the top spot in the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. On January 18, 2006, Gustavus handed the Blazers their first home loss of the season. At that time these two teams were ranked first and second in the conference. As they met again, they still held the top two spots in the MIAC, meaning a victory would decide the MIAC champion, or co-champions. Full Story | Stats
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Blazers Keep Winning Streak Alive
The Record February 16, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team is heading into its last game of the season with an impressive record (17-3 MIAC, 20-4). Coming off an exciting 83-80 win against Hamline on Saturday without its star player, Anna Heikenen, the team has nothing but faith in its abilities. Heikenen, who is second in scoring in the MIAC with 18.2 points per game, injured her knee in a game against St. Mary’s on Feb. 6. In her absence, other players were able to step up. And they did. First-year wing Ariel Tauer got a starting position scoring 12 points. Junior Katie Kempe added an offensive surge with 18 points and sophomore Jenna Tody came off the bench and contributed 12 points. Full Story
Jenna Tody Named Blazer Athlete of the Week
February 16, 2006- Sophomore basketball athlete Jenna Tody (Woodbury, Minn. / Woodbury HS) has been named Blazer of the Week for her performance against Hamline. In a game that the Blazers won by a mere three points Tody made her presense known as she produced 12 points and two assists in only 16 minutes. The forward shot 80% from the field and was 3-4 from the free throw line.
Patrick Hooper, Sports Information Student Assistant
Heikenen Leads Blazers on Her Senior Night
February 15, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (20-4 overall, 16-3 MIAC) defeated the Augsburg Auggies 71-57 in a must-win ball game. With tonight's victory, the Blazers secured a share of the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference title. This is the ninth MIAC title for Saint Ben's. Not only did the Blazers remain in the top spot in the MIAC, but they won their 20th game of the season, a feat that has been accomplished 17 times in CSB history.
In the last regular season home game, the Blazers honored sole senior and captain Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS) for her dedication and performance on the Blazer basketball team. The team gave Heikenen the best gift possible, a win. And another big win at that. Full Story | Stats
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Blazers Make Comeback, Win by Three
February 11, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (19-4 overall, 16-3 MIAC) defeated the Hamline Pipers 83-80 in a game that really tested the team's resolve. For the majority of the first half the Blazers and Pipers were head and head. The Blazers began to pull away with a 34-23 lead 13 minutes into the game. However, Hamline answered the Blazers by finishing the half on a 27-7 run. The Pipers led 45-41 at halftime. Hamline continudd the run by scoring the first seven points of the second period. By this time, the Blazers had seen enough and began to mount a comeback from the 11 point deficit. Over the next 10 minutes the Blazers fought their way back to a 67-67 tie game. The Blazers continued fighting and proved to be just too much for the Pipers down the stretch. Saint Ben's stayed strong and held onto their slight advantage to win by three. The Blazers had five player score in double figures. Scoring was led by junior point guard Katie Kempe (St. Paul, Minn. / Cretin-Derham Hall) with 18 points. Sophomore forward Jenna Tody (Woodbury, Minn. / Woodbury HS) and first-year post Ariel Tauer (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS) each contributed 12 points for the Blazers. Juniors Jaime Goehner (Jamestown, N.D. / Jamestown HS) and Darby Noreen (Avon, Minn. / Albany HS) also added 10 points each. Stats
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Johnson, Durbin Find Success at St. Ben's
The Record February 9, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team has been under the leadership of head coach Mike Durbin and assistant coach Denny Johnson for the past 20 years. Together, the duo has a history unlike any other in Division III women’s basketball. Durbin and Johnson’s coaching relationship began the summer before the 1986-1987 school year. Durbin was hired as head basketball coach and assistant softball coach, while Johnson was hired as head softball coach and assistant basketball coach. Since then, the two have become more than just coaches; they have become lifelong friends. “I have met one of the most fabulous people in Denny through coaching together,” Durbin said. “He has given me a lifetime of memories, and I know that is true with our players.” Full Story
First-year Duo Continues Edina Tradition at CSB
The Record February 9, 2006 - A saying states, where one goes, others will follow. This certainly is true when it comes to the Blazer basketball team (14-3 MIAC, 17-4). Six years ago, Ashley Brown joined the basketball program after a successful run at Edina High School. Since that time, three more former Hornets have joined the current Blazer team: Anna Heikenen, Ariel Tauer and Nikki Carter. Senior captain Anna Heikenen was greatly influenced by Ashley Brown’s opinion of the Blazer basketball program. "She talked very highly of it, and I trusted what she said," Heikenen said. Heikenen transferred from Winona State to St. Ben’s after just one semester. Since her arrival, she has made a huge impact on the team. Full Story
Blazers Cruise Past Macalester and On to Seven Straight
February 8, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (18-4 overall, 15-3 MIAC) defeated the Macalester Scots 70-31 in a lopsided victory. The Blazers dominated the Scots from the opening tip and throughout the entire 40 minutes of play. Junior point guard Katie Kempe (St. Paul, Minn. / Cretin-Derham Hall) hit a three-pointer one minute and 20 seconds into the game that put the first points on the board. Besides being the first score of the game, Kempe's basket gave the Blazers their first and only lead they would need all night. From that point on the Blazers continued to play their game and never looked back. Full Story | Stats
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Rajkowski Column: Persistent Goehner is Making Her Mark
St. Cloud Times February 7, 2006 - At this time last season, College of St. Benedict junior post Jaime Goehner wasn't so sure she even wanted to keep playing basketball. The 6-foot Jamestown, N.D. native missed her freshman season after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in her right knee on the third day of practice, and the long rehabilitation process was painful. "It took a good eight months before I was even able to play again, and all last year, I didn't feel like I got back up to where I was before I got hurt," said Goehner, whose team defeated St. Mary's 54-44 Monday at Claire Lynch Hall. Full Story
Blazers Survive Cardinal Surge
February 6, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (17-4 overall, 14-3 MIAC) defeated the Saint Mary's Cardinals 54-44 in a game where offense was not the key factor. The Cardinals scored the first basket of the game and looked to gain some speed early in the game. However, the Blazers had another idea. After the first basket, the Blazers followed with a 17-2 scoring spree over the next 11 minutes. Once Saint Ben's took the lead, they held onto it for good.
Saint Mary's was able to come back from this disasterous beginning to the game and made the Blazers work a little harder the rest of the period. The Blazers led 28-17 at halftime. Full Story | Stats
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Blazers Top Tommies, Now Top in the MIAC
February 4, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (16-5 overall, 13-3 MIAC) beat St. Thomas 79-73 in a win that proved to be even more important than Saint Ben's knew at the time. The Tommies fought hard in the first half as they made the Blazers prove their worth on the court. Both teams were tied at 30 just a few minutes before the half. However, Saint Ben's was able to make a short run and go into halftime with a 39-33 lead. Junior wing Darby Noreen (Avon, Minn. / Albany HS) scored 13 of her game-high 20 points in the first period. In the second half, the Tommies refused to go down without out a fight. St. Thomas matched the Blazers in the second period with 40 points for each squad. With the help of junior point guard Katie Kempe (St. Paul, Minn. / Cretin-Derham Hall), and her 16 second half points, the Blazers were able to hold on to their halftime lead and secure a victory. Kempe finished the game with 18 points and senior forward Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS) added 17 points for the Blazers. While the Blazers battled at St. Thomas, Carleton put in some of their own work at Concordia. Carleton defeated Concordia 70-64 and dropped the Cobbers out of first place in the MIAC. With Concordia out, the Blazers gladly stepped back into their previous first place spot in the MIAC. With only four MIAC games remaining in the regular season, the Blazers are on top of the standings with a 1/2 game lead over Concordia. Stats
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Blazers Scare Off Wildcats
February 1, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (15-4 overall, 12-3 MIAC) defeated the St. Catherine Wildcats 89-56 in a very one sided ball game. The Blazers controlled the pace of the game from near the start. The Wildcats fought hard in the first few minutes before the Blazers grabbed hold of the game with both hands.
St. Kate's was ahead 11-10 five minutes into the game. Then first-year forward Ariel Tauer (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS) hit a short jumper to gain a 12-11 advantage and the Blazers never looked back. Tauer's shot sparked a 15-4 run that left the Wildcats helpless. The Blazers led 48-33 at halftime. Full Story | Stats
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Entire Team Contributes in Overtime Victory
January 30, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (14-4 overall, 11-3 MIAC) defeated Bethel 91-88 in an overtime game that went down to the wire. This game could not have been much closer and definitely could not have been any more exciting. From the tip the Royals took the lead, scoring the first basket of the contest only 11 seconds into the game. The Blazers never saw a lead for the duration of the first half. First-year point guard Nikki Carter (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS) hit a three-pointer with time running out in the first half to tie the ball game. Halftime score: 41-41. In the second half the Blazers and Royals fought back and forth while the score was tied eight times and the lead changed hands on 20 occasions. After 40 minutes of regulation the score was stuck at 78-78. In the second half the teams matched each other's scoring with 37 a piece. With only five minutes in overtime to prove who should win the game, the Blazers stepped up to the challenge. Senior forward Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS) led the charge as she scored five of her 14 points in the extra session. The Blazers outscore Bethel 13-10 in overtime to pull off the victory. Sophomore wing Judy Falvey (Lakeville, Minn. / Lakeville HS) led the Blazers in scoring with 16 points. Falvey was only one of six Saint Ben's players to score in double figures. The others following behind Falvey were Heikenen with 14 points, junior wing Darby Noreen (14 points, Avon, Minn. / Albany HS), junior point guard Katie Kempe (11, St. Paul, Minn. / Cretin-Derham Hall), junior post Jaime Goehner (11, Jamestown, N.D. / Jamestown HS), and first-year forward Ariel Tauer (11, Edina, Minn. / Edina HS). Stats
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Noreen and Heikenen Take Turns, Propel Blazers to Victory
January 28, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (13-4 overall, 10-3 MIAC) defeated the Carleton Knights 80-65 in a game that proved to be a story of two halves. The last time Carleton faced off against St. Ben's was on December 5, 2005, when the Knights pulled off a one point victory over the Blazers. This time the game was played in Claire Lynch Hall, and no one was going to come in and do that twice to the Blazer basketball team, especially not on their home court. Full Story | Stats
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Blazers Take Care of the Ball and the Game
January 25, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (12-4 overall, 9-3 MIAC) picked up their first victory this week with a 79-50 win over St. Olaf. This game started off with both teams trading baskets for the first six minutes of play. With 14 minutes remaining in the first half the Oles were leading 13-12. However, over the next five minutes the Blazers dominated the tempo of the game. The Blazers went on a 15-3 run that put them up 27-15 just over halfway into the first period. The Blazers continued to pick up steam into halftime as they led 41-25 at the break. The Blazers cruised through the second half much like they did in the previous period. Throughout this game turnovers proved to be a disaster for the Oles and an opportunity for the Blazers. Saint Ben's forced the Oles into 17 turnovers. Maybe more impressive than the forced turnovers, were the lack of turnover by the Blazers, who were able to escape the first half without a single turnover and went on to finish the game with only five total turnovers. Leading the charge offensively was senior forward Anna Heikenen (Edina, MN / Edina HS) with 17 points. Following right behind was junior wing Jen Dalhed (Apple Valley, MN / Apple Valley HS) with 15 points and junior point guard Katie Kempe (St. Paul, MN / Cretin-Derham Hall) with 11. Stats
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Cobbers Seek Revenge on Blazers
January 21, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (11-4 overall, 8-3 MIAC) was defeated by the Concordia-Moorhead Cobbers 78-69. Earlier this season, when these two team met, you could never have predicted a game like we saw today. On November 30, 2005, the Cobbers came to St. Joseph to face off against the Blazers in the MIAC season opener. The Blazers stomped over the Cobbers 75-46. In just under two months, the story has changed a bit. The Cobbers saw an opportunity to gain revenge on the Blazer team that beat them earlier in the season. Not only did Concordia see the opportunity, they took it. There were 13 tied scores and 17 lead change as this game went back and forth for almost 38 minutes of play. The Blazers were ahead 69-68 with two and a half minutes remaining in regulation. However, the Cobbers went on a 10-0 run that stunned the Blazers and gave Concoordia the victory. Senior forward Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS) scored a team-high 18 points, while junior wing Darby Noreen (Avon, Minn. / Albany HS) pitched in 11 for the Blazers.
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Blazers Rally Behind Heikenen in One Point Loss
January 18, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (11-3 overall, 8-2 MIAC) was defeated 71-70 by Gustavus Adolphus in a game that proved to be a thriller to the end. The Blazers and Gusties fought for a little more than a simple victory in tonight's battle in Claire Lynch Hall. The game was played by the number one and two seeds in the MIAC standings and it showed. From the tip-off until the final buzzer sounded these two teams never let up.
This game was not about more talent or more chances, because each team had their fair share. This game was about who could make that one extra play to push their team over the top. In this one, Gustavus had the one point edge that gave them the victory. However, it was obvious tonight that these two teams will be battling for the top spot come playoff time. Full Story | Stats
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Blazers Roll Over Auggies
January 16, 2005 - The Blazer basketball team (11-2 overall, 8-1 MIAC) beat the Augsburg Auggies 82-53 in a game that was nearly decided by halftime. The Blazers began the game with a 7-0 run which set the pace for the next 20 minutes. St. Ben's never saw the Auggies come within six points for the duration of the game. The Blazers continued the first half run as they went into the break leading 57-26. The Blazers held onto the big lead during the second half on the way to their eigth victory in a row. The Blazers were led in scoring by Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS) with 14 points, only one of four players that scored in double figures. Kari Schroeder (13 points, Richmond, Minn. / Rocori HS), Mackenzie O'Neil (12, Waseca, Minn. / Waseca HS), and Katie Kempe (11, St. Paul, Minn. / Cretin-Derham Hall) added significant scoring for St. Ben's. Blazer basketball is next in action at home on Wednesday, January 18th when they will be defending their first place seed in the MIAC against second place Gustavus. Game time is 7:30 p.m.
Peter Banick, Sports Information Student Assistant
Edina Connections Run Deep for Blazers
St. Cloud Times January 14, 2006 - Sometimes in the recruiting process, all it takes is the arrival of one or two players to establish solid and lasting ties between a college and a particular high school.
For the College of St. Benedict basketball team, landing former Blazers standout Ashley Brown and current All-American Anna Heikenen opened up a pipeline to Edina High School. Freshman Nikki Carter and Ariel Tauer are the latest two players to come through it.
"Sometimes it only takes a couple of names to open up people's eyes," said Tauer, whose team (7-1 MIAC, 10-2 overall) plays at Augsburg (1-8, 3-10) at 7:30 p.m. today at Si Melby Hall in Minneapolis. "That's kind of what happened with us. Ashley being here kind of helped in Anna's decision and Anna being here helped with Nikki and I." Full Story
Blazers Hang On Despite Rough Shooting Afternoon
January 14, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (10-2 overall, 7-1 MIAC) was able to hold onto their 33-28 halftime lead on their way to a 80-67 victory over the Hamline Pipers. The first half of the game was marked by nine lead changes while both teams fought to gain control of the game. The Blazers were able to gain a 27-26 lead with just under two minutes remaining in the first half on a short jumper by Ellie Boone (Maple Grove, Minn. / Maple Grove HS). The Blazers never gave up their lead for the rest of the game. St. Ben's had a tough time shooting as they shot only 37.7 percent from the field for the game. On the other side, Hamline shot 51 percent for the game. However, the Blazers were able to overcome this Piper advantage by working harder and creating turnovers. The Blazers were able to force 21 turnovers which they turned into 30 points on the other end. Darby Noreen (Avon, Minn. / Albany HS) had a game-high 25 points while she shot 5-8 from beyond the arch and 6-6 from the free throw line. Scoring was also contributed by Anna Heikenen (13 points, Edina, Minn. / Edina HS), Katie Kempe (11, St. Paul, Minn. / Cretin-Derham Hall), and Boone (11). The Blazers are next in action on Monday, January 16 at Augsburg. Game time is 7:30 p.m. Stats
Blazers Turn Up the Heat in the Second Half
January 7, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (9-2 overall, 6-1 MIAC) defeated St. Mary's in a 63-33 victory stemmed from a huge second half effort. St. Mary's scored five quick points in the final minute of the first half to make things interesting for the Blazers, who were up one 23-22 at halftime. Coming out of the half the Cardinals were able to score the first basket of the half and go up 24-23. That was the last time St. Mary's led in the game. After relinquishing the lead for the first time in fourteen minutes of play, the Blazers went on a rampage. Over the next five minutes the Blazers mounted a 18-2 run that put them ahead 41-26 and gave them the lead for the remainder of the game. The scoring spree was led by Ellie Boone (Maple Grove, Minn. / Maple Grove HS) with 7 points and Darby Noreen (Avon, Minn. / Albany HS) with 3 steals and a 3-pointer that capped the run at 18. Boone led the team in scoring with 15 points for the game. Katie Kempe (St. Paul, Minn. / Cretin-Derham Hall) contributed 11 points and Noreen added 10 to lift the Blazers to victory. The Blazers are next in action on Saturday, January 14th at home against Hamline. Game time is 1 p.m. Stats
Listen to Saturday's Basketball Game Live
January 5, 2006 - Tune into Saturday's Blazer basketball game at Saint Mary's. The game can be listened to live on the Saint Mary's website. Tip-off is at 1 p.m. SMU website
Blazers Romp over Tommies
St. Cloud Times January 5, 2006 - Starting off rocky is not usually something teams want to do against their biggest rivals. But on Wednesday night, it was just fine for St. Benedict as it cruised by St. Thomas 75-55 in MIAC action. At the start of the first half, the Blazers let the Tommies jump out to a 14-8 lead with 10 minutes left before mounting their own 29-9 run en route to their ninth straight win over St. Thomas. Then, at the start of the second half, the Tommies pulled within 14, but never got closer than 11. Full Story
Blazers Start Slow But Pick Up Pace Rapidly
January 4, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (8-2 overall, 5-1 MIAC) picked up a 75-55 win at home against St. Thomas. This game was a matchup that would determine the current leader in the MIAC. The Blazers came into the game with a 4-1 MIAC record and St. Thomas was only a game back with a 3-1 MIAC record. St. Ben's utilized every player on the floor to pick up this well executed victory. In the end, the Blazers proved why they are on top of the MIAC standings six games into the conference schedule. Full Story | Stats
Noreen's Steals help Blazers trip Wildcats
St. Cloud Times January 3, 2006 - Junior wing Darby Noreen scored 10 points and had a pair of key steals and a blocked shot late as the College of St. Benedict basketball team defeated St. Catherine 74-66 in MIAC action Monday night at the Butler Center.“Her steals down the stretch were important, but she also had a really big basket that bumped our lead up and allowed us to catch our breath a little bit,” Blazers coach Mike Durbin said. “She’s just a playmaker. Her instincts out there are so good.” Noreen finished with a total of three blocked shots. For St. Benedict (4-1 MIAC, 7-2 overall), it marked the 27th straight win over the Wildcats. Senior post Anna Heikenen led the way with 26 points and 12 rebounds. Full Story
Blazers Fend off Wildcats 74-66
January 2, 2006 - The Blazer basketball team (7-2, 4-1 MIAC) played tough in a hard-fought 74-66 victory over St. Catherine tonight. Saint Ben's gained an 11-4 lead in the first five minutes, but the Wildcats hung close. CSB took a slim 36-34 halftime lead. The score remained tight until the Blazers went up by 10 points at 61-51 with eight minutes remaining and were able to hang on for the win. Senior Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn./Edina HS) led the Blazers with a double-double performance scoring 26 points and pulling down 12 rebounds. Saint Ben's is next in action at home on Wednesday against St. Thomas. Game time is 7:30 p.m. Stats
Blazers Respond to Challenge
St. Cloud Times January 1, 2006 - It was a day early, but College of St. Benedict junior point guard Katie Kempe already started on a New Year's resolution Saturday afternoon.Having been challenged by Blazers coach Mike Durbin to provide more consistent offensive production, Kempe and fellow members of the St. Benedict starting backcourt answered the call in a 79-54 nonconference win over Jamestown (N.D.) College at Claire Lynch Hall. Full Story
Blazers Cruise to 79-54 Victory Over Jamestown
December 31, 2005 - The Blazer basketball team improved to 6-2 overall and 3-1 in MIAC play with a 79-54 nonconference win over Jamestown College this afternoon. Senior forward Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn./Edina HS) and junior guard Katie Kempe (St. Paul, Minn./Cretin-Derham Hall) led Saint Ben's with 16 points each. Junior wing Darby Noreen (Avon, Minn./Albany HS) chipped in 15 points. CSB notched 11 baskets from three-point range and held a 36-23 lead at halftime. The Blazers are next in action at St. Catherine on Monday at 7:30 p.m. Stats
Blazers Are All Right with 5-2 Start to Season
St. Cloud Times December 31, 2005 - If prior to the start of this season, you had told College of St. Benedict basketball coach Mike Durbin that his team would be 5-2 at the holidays, he would have been more than satisfied.
The Blazers lost All-MIAC post Kim Johnson and her top backup, Tara Schloe, to graduation. Junior post Ellie Boone, who also saw significant playing time, was studying abroad and had yet to return.
"Five-and-two is a good record," said Durbin, whose team resumes play after a 2 1/2-week holiday break when it plays host to Jamestown (N.D.) College at 1 p.m. today at Claire Lynch Hall. "I was concerned during the summer that it could have been worse than that, especially being without Ellie. So I'm satisfied with where we are. Full Story
Heikenen, Blazers Roll, 73-56
St. Cloud Times December 14, 2005 - Senior Anna Heikenen scored 16 points and pulled down 12 rebounds despite leaving the game late in the second half as the College of St. Benedict basketball team rolled past Minnesota-Morris 73-56 in nonconference action at the Minnesota-Morris P.E. Center Tuesday night. Junior post Jamie Goehner came off the bench to add 12 points, seven rebounds and three blocks. Her efforts were especially important on a night when Heikenen and freshmen posts Ariel Tauer and Kari Schroeder ran into foul trouble."I just knew with those girls in foul trouble, I had to get in there and play really good defense," Goehner said. Full Story
Blazers Win on the Boards, Win the Game
December 13, 2005 - The Blazer basketball team (5-2 overall, 3-1 MIAC) defeated the University of Minnesota-Morris 73-56. Saint Ben's grabbed 46 rebounds while the Cougars were only able to come away with 32. This effort on the glass and in the paint gave the Blazers the advantage and greatly contributed to the outcome of this game. The Blazers were led in scoring by Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS) who recorded a double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds. Katie Kempe (St. Paul, Minn. / Cretin-Derham Hall) added 14 points and Jaime Goehner (Jamestown, N.D. / Jamestown HS) came off the bench to score 12 points and grab 7 boards. The Blazers are next in action at home on Saturday, December 31 at 1 p.m. against Jamestown College. Stats
Falvey Fills Niche
The Record December 8, 2005 - The off-season is a time for players to develop and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of his or her particular game. When the next season rolls around, the athlete hopes to showcase a new and improved game. This is certainly true of sophomore Judy Falvey, a member of the St. Ben's basketball team (3-1 MIAC, 4-2 overall). Last season, Falvey appeared in 19 varsity games, averaging 2.7 points per game. "My role varied from game to game," said Falvey, a graduate of Lakeville High School. "I usually came in for a particular purpose. I didn't get a lot of minutes." It wasn't bad for a first-year player, but head coach Mike Durbin definitely saw more out of the 5-foot-11 wing. Full Story
CSB Holds off Bethel, 80-70
St. Cloud Times December 8, 2005 - Despite the fact that she had ice packs strapped over what seemed like half her body, Anna Heikenen was feeling pretty good Wednesday night. The College of St. Benedict senior post had just scored 31 points and pulled down seven rebounds to help the Blazers hold off pesky-and-improved Bethel 80-70 in MIAC action at Claire Lynch Hall. And as the icebound All-American socialized in the bleachers afterward, her smile indicated she was quite pleased with her team's effort. Full Story
Blazers Hand Bethel First Loss
December 7, 2005 - The Blazer basketball team (4-2 overall, 3-1 MIAC) defeated the Bethel Royals 80-70. This was the first conference loss for Bethel, as well as their first loss on the season. This game proved to be a test of will. The game was won by the team that wanted it the most. The Blazers certainly demonstrated the necessary desire and toughness to win this showdown. The Blazers were led in scoring by senior forward Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS). Full Story | Stats
Blazers Lose First MIAC Game in a Battle to the End
December 5, 2005 - The Blazer basketball team (3-2 overall, 2-1 MIAC) was defeated by the Carleton Knights 58-57 in a game that went down to the wire. The Blazers trailed 26-22 at halftime, but made a charge in the second half. With 14 minutes remaining in the game, St. Ben's went on a 13-2 scoring run that put them up four points, 46-42. The second half surge was led by senior forward Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS) who scored six of the 13 points on her way to a game high of 24. Junior wing Darby Noreen (Avon, Minn. / Albany HS) and junior point guard Katie Kempe (St. Paul, Minn. / Cretin-Derham Hall) both pitched in 10 points in the team effort. The Blazers couldn't hold off the Knights as they took the final lead of the game with 15 seconds remaining to go up 58-57. The winning basket marked the eleventh lead change of this battle. The Blazers are next in action Wednesday night at home against Bethel. Game time is 7:30 p.m.
Blazers Defense Stifles Oles
December 3, 2005 - The Blazer basketball team (3-1 overall, 2-0 MIAC) defeated St. Olaf 67-38 for their second home win this week. The Blazers led 26-23 going into halftime. The Blazers proved to be a different team that showed up on the floor in the second half. The mentality of the game had shifted, and the Blazers took over on defense. The Blazers forced the Oles into 26 turnovers, and recorded 20 steals. Though the defense was extremely impressive, junior point guard Katie Kempe (St. Paul, Minn. / Cretin-Derham HS) and senior forward Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn. / Edina HS) also got things done on the offensive end. Stats
All-American Embarks on Final Season
The Record December 1, 2005 - Basketball is just what Anna Heikenen does.She started playing in kindergarten and with some help from her family, learned how to play the game. She grew up watching her sister play and shot hoops with her dad in the driveway.After a successful high school career at Edina, Heikenen moved on to play for half a season at Winona State before transferring to St. Ben's in December 2002.She was part of one of the largest classes of first-years to try out. Over the years, however, that class has dwindled to only her.Four years later, Heikenen has put together one of the most successful careers a Blazer basketball player has ever posted.But after living a life immersed in the game, the senior will face life without competitive basketball after this season. Full Story
Blazers Win Handily in MIAC Opener
November 30, 2005 - The Blazer basketball team (2-1 overall, 1-0) defeated Concordia-Moorhead 75-46 in the MIAC opener. Wednesday night's contest also marked the first game and first victory in Claire Lynch Hall this season for the Blazers. Momentum played a great role in the win. The Blazers went on one scoring run each half that left the Cobbers asking questions. The scoring was spread out with large contributions from junior wing Jen Dalhed (Apple Valley, Minn. / Apple Valley HS) and sophomore wing Judy Falvey (Lakeville, Minn. / Lakeville). Full Story
Women's Basketball: CSB Rolls to Big Win
St. Cloud Times December 1, 2005 - Memories of a loss to Ohio Northern in the season's first game have been bugging junior wing Jen Dalhed and her teammates on the College of St. Benedict basketball team for almost two weeks now. That proved unfortunate for the Concordia Cobbers, the team the Blazers took out their frustrations on in their MIAC opener Wednesday night at Claire Lynch Hall. Dalhed scored 13 points, sophomore wing Judy Falvey had 14 and senior post Anna Heikenen added a game-best 19 as St. Benedict used a smothering defense to roll to a 75-46 victory. Full Story
MIAC Announces 2005-06 Basketball Coaches Preseason Poll
St. Paul, Minn. November 23, 2005 - The Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) announced today its 2005-06 Men's and Women's Basketball Coaches Preseason Polls. On the men's side, St. Thomas edged out two-reigning MIAC champion Gustavus for the top spot. Carleton and Concordia were ranked third and fourth amongst the men. Saint Benedict was the top pick for nine of the women's coaches. The Blazers are followed by Carleton, Gustavus, and Cocordia. MIAC conference basketball games begin for both the men and women on November 30, 2005. Full Rankings
Blazers Take Third Place with 84-58 Victory over Loras
November 19, 2005 - The Blazer basketball team (1-1 overall) cruised to an 84-58 win over Loras in the third place game of the North Central Tip-Off Tournament Saturday afternoon. Loras jumped to an early 11-4 lead, but then the Blazers tied the game at 14-14 with 9:41 to go in the half and never looked back. Four CSB players scored in double figures. Junior Darby Noreen (Avon, Minn./Albany HS) led all scorers with 15 points. Senior Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn./ Edina HS) chipped in 12 points, while sophomore Judy Falvey (Lakeville, Minn./Lakeville HS) knocked down 11. Junior Katie Kempe (St. Paul, Minn./Cretin Derham) added 10 points. Saint Ben's shot 49 percent from the field for the game, while holding Loras to 40 percent. The Blazers are next in action on Wednesday, November 30 when they open MIAC play at home against Concordia-Moorhead. Stats
Blazers Take Tough Loss in Tip-Off Tournament
November 18, 2005 - The Blazer basketball team (0-1 overall) lost their season opener 75-74 to Ohio Northern at this year's North Central Tip-Off Tournament. The Blazers led by four early in the second half in what was a tight game the whole way, but saw their lead slip away. Despite a 35 point, 12 rebound effort by senior forward Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn/Edina HS), the Blazers couldn't pull away. Junior Darby Noreen (Avon, Minn./Albany HS) also contributed with 12 points. Saint Ben's shot 46 percent from the field, while Ohio Northern shot 43 percent. The Blazers will play the loser of the North Central and Loras game for third place Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m. Stats
Kempe's Confidence Soars as Blazers tip off Season
St. Cloud Times November 16, 2005 - The College of St. Benedict basketball team's run to the round of 16 in the NCAA Division III tournament last season was a confidence-booster for many Blazers players. But junior point guard Katie Kempe may have gotten the biggest boost of all. "I started to feel a lot more confident in my skills," said Kempe, a 5-foot-6 Cretin-Derham Hall graduate. "I always knew I could so it, but the playoffs were the perfect chance to go all out and experiment with new things." Kempe averaged 8.2 points per game last season, but increased that average to almost 12 ppg during six postseason contests in the MIAC and NCAA tournaments. Full Story
Heikenen Named to All-America Team
November 4, 2005 - College of Saint Benedict senior forward Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn./Edina HS) has been named to the D3hoops.com Division III preseason All-America second team. Heikenen, who averaged 17.6 ppg a year ago, helped lead the Blazers to an MIAC Playoff Championship and NCAA Sweet 16 appearance in 2004-05. Heikenen was named to the All-America fourth team last year as a junior. This year the Blazers hope to achieve great things with the help of this senior leader.
CSB Basketball Ranked Ninth in Preseason Poll
October 28, 2005 - The 2005-2006 Blazer basketball team has been ranked ninth in the D3hoops.com preseason top 25 poll. CSB returns four starters from last season including 2004-2005 D3hoops.com All-American fourth team selection Anna Heikenen (Edina, Minn./ Edina HS). The Blazers start their season on the road Friday, Nov. 18th against Ohio Northern at 2 p.m. at the North Central Holiday Inn Select Tip-Off Tournament.
The Blazers have also been ranked 14th in another preseason poll. This latest honor came from the USA Today ESPN Top 25 Coaches' Poll.
CSB Basketball Begins Practice and New Season
October 17, 2005 - The 2005-2006 season begins today for the CSB Basketball team who finished the 2004-2005 campaign with a 24-5 overall record and a Sweet Sixteen appearance in the Division III National tournament. The team will be holding their first pre-season practice this evening. Four starters from last year's team will return to the team this season, including senior post Anna Heikenen, who was named to the D3hoops.com All American fourth team, junior wings Darby Noreen, an All-MIAC honorable mention selection last season, and Jen Dalhed and junior point guard Katie Kempe. CSB opens their competitive season on Friday, Nov. 18th against Ohio Northern at 2 p.m. at the North Central Holiday Inn Select Tip-Off Tournament.
Blazers Reunite at Summer Camps
St. Cloud Times July 14, 2005 - For those attending summer basketball camp at the College of St. Benedict, the experience is a chance to learn more about the game. For current and former Blazer players, it's kind of like a family reunion. Because so many players and alumni return to the school to work as camp counselors, the occasion provides those involved with a chance to reconnect with teammates, and meet and get to know others who played for St. Benedict before and/or after they did. Full Story | Register Online | Camp Store
Heikenen Selected to Kodak/WBCA All-America Honorable Mention Team
April 2, 2005 - Junior forward Anna Heikenen (Edina/Edina) was selected to the 2005 Kodak/WBCA All-America Honorable Mention Team. She is one of 30 players out of 430 teams to receive this honor. Heikenen became only the 16th Blazer basketball player to reach 1,000 career points. She averaged a team-best 17.6 points per game. Heikenen was also named to the D3hoops.com All-West Region team and All-MIAC following the competion of the Blazers' season at the Sweet 16 round of the NCAA Tournament Concordia-Moorhead's Mandy Pearson was one of ten players selected to the Kodak/WBCA All-America Team ... 2005 Kodak/WBCA All-America Team
Athletic Department
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