New Rochelle, NY - Two Gaels recorded double-doubles for the Iona College women's basketball team (3-5, 1-1 MAAC) as the Maroon & Gold defeated Siena 81-69 to pick up its first conference win of the season.  Anna McLean was on a roll, racking up 15 points, 12 rebounds, and six blocks.  Jessica Smith posted a career-high 16 points along with ten boards and three steals.

The Saints (4-6, 0-2 MAAC) had the contest's two leading scorers; Laura Menty and Melissa Manzer who contributed 19 and 18 points respectively.

Iona opened up a 5-0 lead on a layup by McLean and a Smith three pointer and would be in control for much of the first half.  Ahead 13-7 at the 12:17 mark, freshman Cat Lutz knocked down a shot from well behind the three point line to stretch Iona's lead to nine points.  Siena then went on a 9-0 run to tie the game at 16-all on a Laura Menty layup with 9:17 on the clock.  The two teams traded the advantage until the Gaels pulled ahead for good on another Lutz long-ball.

Iona continued to maintain command in the second period, stretching a 36-29 halftime lead into a 12 point spread by the final buzzer.  The Gaels' largest lead of the day was a 19 point advantage, reached on a trifecta by Thazina Cook with 8:04 left to play.  Manzer hit a three point shot to bring the Saints to within seven with 1:26 to go.  Iona netted six free throws over the final 1:20 for the win.

The Gaels return to non-conference action when they host the University of New Hampshire on Dec. 12.  Game time is set for 7:30 pm.