MORROW, GA. – Anderson University women's basketball (1-0) opened its 2023-24 season in convincing fashion, defeating nonconference opponent Flagler (0-1), 82-63, at the Conference Challenge hosted by Clayton State on Friday afternoon at The Loch and Mason Barfield Court.
"We are so excited to finally start the season," said head coach Jonathon Barbaree. "I'm proud of how we brought the energy from the beginning to the end, both offensively and on the defensive end. We were a little careless with the ball, but those things happen when you are excited. Overall, a great team win."
"We are going to enjoy the win for about two hours, then we will have to get back at it with another tough one again tomorrow," added Barbaree.
Anderson placed four players in double-figures with two Trojans recording double-doubles. AU's Brittney Stafford led all scorers with 21 points. Stafford added eight rebounds, three steals and two assists to her impressive stat-line. Newcomer Zamiya Passmore had an impressive first game in a Trojan uniform, scoring the first basket for the Black and Gold while adding 17 more points in 33 minutes of action. Passmore also dished out seven assists, grabbed five rebounds and was credited with four steals in her debut. Junior Diamond McDowell netted 16 points while ripping down 10 rebounds and senior Nelliah Wilson chipped in 10 points while grabbing 12 rebounds. Sophomore Ashlyn Sheridan dropped in eight points and grabbed seven rebounds.
The Trojans played aggressive on both ends of the court, forcing 24 turnovers and going to the line 32 times. The Saints miscues turned into 25 points for the Black and Gold. Anderson scored 40 points in the paint.
Flagler's Destiny McClendon scored a team-high 16 points while Sharale McCormick netted 13 points for the Saints.
Anderson began the game on a 12-0 run and finished the first period with a 26-16 lead. The Trojans did not drop a quarter, winning quarter two, 19-18, quarter three, 20-15 and the final stanza, 17-14.
Anderson will square off with host Clayton State on Saturday. Tip-off is slated for 3:30 pm.
