BOLOGNA, Italy – The Toledo women's basketball experienced some fun in the kitchen and on the court in Bologna on Monday during its second day in Italy. The Rockets took part in a cooking class at the Scuola de Cucina Cooking School, before securing a hard-fought 76-61 victory against the Bologna All-Stars in Baricella.

UToledo began the day at the cooking school where it made Tagliatelle al Ragu Bolognese from scratch and had Tiramisu for dessert.

"The cooking class was a great experience," junior Mariah Copeland said. "It was really cool to see how the pasta and dessert are prepared."

The Rockets then had a chance to explore Bologna before taking part in a walk through and pre-game meal.

As far as tonight's game went, junior Tanaya Beacham paced three Rockets in double figures with a game-high 16 points. Senior Rokkanen and junior Nakiah Black chipped in 10 points each and Bologna native Mariella Santucci finished with eight, all in the fourth quarter, to help propel Toledo to the 15-point exhibition triumph.

"What a special night," head coach Tricia Cullop said. "Mariella could probably run for mayor in Bologna and get elected. We're so glad to bring Mariella home, and at the same time, expose our players to this wonderful place."

UToledo went on a game-changing 11-4 run to end the first half and take a 39-33 lead at the intermission. Copeland sparked the late burst with a triple and three charity tosses to give the Midnight Blue & Gold a lead it would not relinquish.

"Tonight was lovely," Santucci said. "I've waited four years for this. My family has never seen me play. I'm really happy we had the chance to show them."   

Toledo wrapped up Monday evening with dinner with the Bologna All-Star Team and boosters at Antica Tratorria Golfierri Restaurant. 

Tomorrow, the Rockets will travel by bus to Florence. They will tour the city and work on their tans at a local pool. Toledo will then make its way back to Bologna to have dinner with Santucci's family.