NEWBERRY, S.C. - Anderson University (5-4, 1-0 SAC) women's basketball used a strong defensive effort to win its opening South Atlantic Conference contest against Newberry (4-5, 0-1 SAC) on Wednesday evening at the Eleazer Arena.

"We are really proud of our defensive effort tonight," said head coach Jonathon Barbaree. "I thought the bench did a great job and once again Britney Bailey was huge for us leading that charge."

"We have finals the next two days so focus will turn to that," added Barbaree. "Our next game has moved to Saturday."

Draining a season high 10 three-point shots and holding the Wolves to a match of their season low total of 38 points led to a 28-point road win for the Black and Gold.

Anderson outscored the Wolves 21-11 in the opening quarter with 11 being the most points scored in any quarter by Newberry. AU held Newberry to just five points in the third period of action.

The Black and Gold placed three players in double-figure scoring with sophomore Diamond McDowell leading the way with a team high 13 points. McDowell was also credited with seven rebounds in 25 minutes of action. Freshman Ashlyn Sheridan continued her solid play netting 11 points and ripping down six rebounds. Senior Brittney Stafford chipped in 10 points while dishing out four assists. Senior Britney Bailey pulled down a career high 20 rebounds. Bailey also recorded eight points, three steals and two assists on the evening.

Newberry's Ericka Wiseley was the Wolves lone double-digit scorer dropping in a game-high 16 points. Wiseley also grabbed five rebounds and blocked two shots.

Anderson will return to the friendly confines of the Abney Athletic Center on Saturday when it hosts nonconference opponent Savannah State. Tip-off is slated for 6 pm.