Anderson, S.C. –The Anderson University (3-2, 3-0 SAC) women's basketball team won its third straight contest and 15th straight over South Atlantic Conference opponent Queens (1-3, 0-3 SAC), 69-53, on Tuesday evening at the Abney Athletic Center.
"I thought this was the first game that we had a solid start and finish, while playing complete defense," said head coach Jonathon Barbaree.
"We are still learning how to play together within the system, but I saw so great team play today," added Barbaree.
Senior Britney Bailey earned game-high scoring honors dropping in 16 points, while grabbing five rebounds. Coming off of injured reserve, graduate student Shameka McNeill added a huge spark, scoring 15 points in 22 minutes of action. Freshman Diamond McDowell recorded her second straight double-double with 12 points and 15 rebounds.
Queens was paced by Kalaya Hall scoring a team-high 14 points and Taylor Stevens chipping in 10 points.
The Black and Gold's active defense held the Royals to just 31 percent shooting from the field and 27.3 percent from behind the arc. Anderson also outrebounded Queens 53-36, chasing down nine more offensive rebounds than the Royals.
Anderson led the Royals, 22-14, after one quarter of play. The Trojans extended its lead to 13 points heading into halftime.
Queens cut the lead to eight points, following AU's six-minute scoring drought in the third period of action. A three-point basket by McNeill in the waning seconds of the third stanza snapped Anderson out of its lull.
AU's high energy play helped keep a comfortable lead throughout the fourth period of action with the Black and Gold winning by 16 points.
"I loved our energy and it's always great to win at a home, said Barbaree. "Looking forward to spending Thanksgiving together as a team and continue that effort on Saturday."
Anderson will travel to South Atlantic Conference foe Newberry on Saturday. Tip-off is slated for 2 pm.
