JEFFERSON CITY, TENN. – Opening period deficit proves costly as Anderson University women's basketball (13-11, 7-7 SAC) fall to South Atlantic Conference opponent Carson-Newman (15-8, 10-3 SAC), 53-46, on Saturday afternoon at the Holt Fieldhouse.

Carson-Newman took an 25-14 opening quarter lead and despite the Trojans efforts they could not recover from the 11-point deficit.

The Eagles increased its lead to 12 following the second quarter and kept a double-digit lead of 11 points heading into the final period of action. The Trojans outscored Carson-Newman 27-22, but it was not enough to overtake the lead and ultimately the victory.

Sophomore Diamond McDowell led AU with her eighth double-double of the season scoring 17 points and ripping down 14 rebounds. McDowell was also credited with three blocked shots. Freshman Ashlyn Sheridan netted 16 points and five rebounds, while Brittney Stafford and Britney Bailey each scored 14 points apiece.

C-N's Braelyn Wykle led all-scorers with a game-high 44 points. Campbell Penland joined Wykle in double-figure scoring with 13 points.

Anderson outrebounded the Eagles 51-35, while the Eagles drained 13-of-14 from the free throw line.

Anderson will remain on the road and travel to SAC opponent Lenoir-Rhyne on Wednesday. Tip-off is slated for 5:30 pm.