ANDERSON, S.C. – Led by junior Diamond McDowell,who became the 17th women's basketball player in AU history to reach 1000 career points, Anderson (16-3, 8-3 SAC) won its fifth straight South Atlantic Conference game with the win over Newberry (6-14, 4-8 SAC), 88-75, on Wednesday evening at the Abney Athletic Center.
"I thought we came out clicking on all cylinders to start the game and I really enjoyed the first half," said head coach Jonathon Barbaree. "The second half we slowed down but till did some good things"
"Several players stepped up tonight and it was a great team win," explained Barbaree.
"Also, congratulations to Diamond on reaching 1000," added Barbaree. Her continuous hard work has helped her reach this goal."
Anderson jumped out to a fast start scoring 33 total point over the first 10 minutes of action. The Trojans still outscored the Wolves in the second period of play, but with less margin. AU led Newberry, 52-30, heading into the half.
The Black and Gold slowed down in the second half of play, but their lead was too large for the Wolves to overcome.
McDowell recorded her 10th double-double scoring a game-high 20 points and ripping down 15 rebounds. Senior Nelliah Wilson netted 18 points while pulling down six rebounds. Graduate Brittney Stafford had a solid all-around outing, dropping in 16 points and grabbing five rebounds. Freshman Peytyn Oliver scored a career-high 12 points draining 4-of-8 from behind the arc. Zamiya Passmore chipped in 10 points, dished out nine assists, chased down five rebounds and was credited with two steals and two blocked shots.
Newberry placed three players in double-digit scoring with April Rummery-Lamb and Julia Paoletta shared team-high honors with 14 apiece.
Tonight's win moved the Trojans in a tie for second-place in the SAC standings.
Anderson remains home to host Coker on Saturday. Tip-off is slated for 2 pm.
