ANDERSON, S.C – No. 17 Anderson University women's basketball grinded out a physical matchup against South Atlantic Conference opponent Tusculum, 54-51, taking back ownership of first-place on Saturday afternoon at the Abney Athletic Center.
With the victory, the Trojans improve to 20-4 overall and 15-3 in SAC play, while the Pioneer slip to 18-6 overall and 13-5 in conference action.
Senior Madison Baggett equaled her career high scoring 22 points draining 6-of-8 three-point baskets. Baggett also recorded seven rebounds and four steals. Junior Taylor Hair netted 10 points while also providing a lift on defense with three blocked shots. Freshman McKenzie Gadson chipped in eight points and six rebounds while senior Alexy Mollenhauer grabbed a game-high 13 rebounds.
Tusculum trio Mia Long, Kasey Johnson and Maddie Sutton reach double-digit scoring for the Pioneers. Both Sutton and Johnson recorded a double-double adding 11 and 10 rebounds, respectively.
Anderson carried a five point lead into halftime, 31-26, while building its largest lead of the game, eight, in the opening minute of the third period. Midway thru the third quarter, the Pioneers used a 6-0 run to take a, 41-40, lead with 4:08 remaining. Baggett and freshman Nelliah Wilson each scored three unanswered points apiece to push it lead to five, 46-41, with the final stanza left to play.
Tusculum pulled even on a made layup by Long at the 2:27 mark, before AU's Hair scored a layup and 1-of-2 free throws to put the Black and Gold ahead, 54-51 with 1:29 second left to go.
The Pioneers had a few looks at the basket, but Anderson's defense stayed disciplined denying Tusculum's upset bid.
"Definitely a battle between two physical teams", said head coach Jonathon Barbaree. "We are excited to pull out the win. I thought some young players stepped up to help us tonight in some key situations."
"We also really appreciate the great turnout for our Play4kay game", added Barbaree. "Next Saturday is our Senior Day, so please come out and help us recognize all that they have done for our program."
Anderson hits the road to square off with SAC opponent Coker on Wednesday. Tip-off is slated for 5:30 p.m. DeLoach Center.
