ANDERSON, S.C. – Despite shooting a dismal 17.2 percent from the field in the first half of action, Anderson University women's basketball (12-9, 6-5 SAC) used tenacious defensive pressure to not only erase the 17-point deficit, but to defeat South Atlantic Conference opponent Newberry (6-15, 2-9 SAC), 55-47, on Wednesday evening at the Abney Athletic Center.
"After a flat start, I thought the team really rallied together and played their hearts out in the second half, especially on defense," said head coach Jonathon Barbaree.
"We also did a good job of getting to the line and finishing the free throw," added Barbaree.
Newberry shot lights out from deep in the opening period, hitting 5-of-7 three-points baskets to help take a 21-6 lead after one period of play. The Wolves were able to extend its lead to 17 points with Anderson still trying to find its rhythm.
The Trojans came out of halftime wide open on defense, causing 10 miscues in the quarter by the Wolves that resulted in 12 points. Anderson went on a 17-0 run to tie the game at 30 apiece, before Newberry would score its first two points of the second half at the 4:17 mark of the third quarter. After three periods of play, AU was able to take it first lead of the game, 38-36.
The Black and Gold was able to maintain a double-digit lead in the latter portion of the final stanza to complete the comeback victory and claim its second straight SAC win, 55-47.
Senior Britney Bailey recorded her fourth double-double of the season scoring 13 points and ripping down 15 rebounds. Bailey went 7-of-8 from the free throw line and was credited with four steals on the evening. Senior Brittney Stafford and sophomore Diamond McDowell netted 11 points, with Stafford pulling down seven rebounds and dishing out four assists.
The Wolves placed two players in double-digit scoring with Payton Cronen scoring a game-high 15 points and Giulia Bongiorno chipping in 11 points.
Anderson will hit the road to play new SAC member Emory & Henry on Saturday. Tip-off is slated for 2 pm.
