ANDERSON, S.C. – Anderson University women's basketball (2-2) won its home season opener, 47-38, against nonconference opponent Mount Olive (0-3) on Saturday afternoon at the Abney Athletic Center.
"Really grateful to come away with the win in a defensive heavy weight fight," emphasized head coach Jonathon Barbaree.
"Even though shots weren't falling, we kept battling and played some of our best defense in the fourth quarter," added Barbaree
The best part about this team is how well they cheer for each other and are wanting to learn every time we step on the floor, " said Barbaree. "I thought today we learned a lot especially how to grind out a win."
Anderson ramped up its defensive effort forcing Mount Olive's offensive output to its lowest of the season with the Trojans scoring just 38 total points for the game. Mount Olive dug its heels in also forcing AU to its lowest scoring output of the season.
After holding a slight, 23-20 halftime lead, the Black and Gold lost the third quarter, 14-13, before pulling away in the fourth quarter, holding Mount Olive to just four points in the final frame.
The Trojans placed two players in double figure scoring with senior Jalyn Spurlin scoring a team-high 13 points. Sophomore Diamond McDowell netted 11 points and ripped down 15 rebounds, earning her second double-double of the season. Senior Britney Bailey chipped in nine points while grabbing 13 rebounds on the afternoon. Freshman Ashlyn Sheridan gave Anderson 18 valuable minutes. Sherdian scored four points on 2-of-3 shooting, pulled down two rebounds and was credited with a steal.
Mount Olive placed two players in double-figures with Laila Harris scoring a game-high 14 points and Haleigh Crews dropping in 12 points.
The Trojans begin a five-game road swing on Tuesday when they travel to nonconference opponent Columbus State. Tip-off is slated for 5:30 pm.
