Box Score ANDERSON, S.C. – After getting off to a slow start, Anderson University women's basketball (13-10, 7-6 SAC) flipped the switch in the second half coming up just short to South Atlantic Conference leader and No. 17th nationally ranked Catawba (19-4, 11-2 SAC), 69-62, on Wednesday evening at the Abney Athletic Center.
"Tale of two half's for sure," said head coach Jonathon Barbaree. "We were a little flat the first and it showed in our defense, especially. When you play one of the top team's in the conference, you have to have your defense clicking. With that said, I love the grit that we showed once again in the second half."
"We definitely had our chances when we cut it to four and five," added Barbaree.
"I am proud of this team and I think that we are in a great place with five really tough game ahead," stated Barbaree. "Looking forward to getting back after it."
The Trojans dug themselves into a hole after the first 20 minutes of action, trailing 43-27. Catawba was able to get open looks and the Lady Indians got to the foul line seven time, making six. For the half, Catawba shot 45.7% from the field.
Anderson was able to cut the lead to five points after three quarters of action, winning the third period, 19-8. The Black and Gold defense stepped up holding the Indians to just 20% shooting and outrebounded them 19-9 in the frame.
The Trojans were able to cut the lead to three points with four minutes to play, however every time AU would get close the Indians would respond. Anderson was able to cut the lead to five one last time at the 1:33 mark, but Catawba was able to extend it back to seven to set the final score at, 69-62.
Sophomore Diamond McDowell scored a team-high 20 points and pulled down nine rebounds. Senior Brittney Stafford netted 12 points and chased down eight rebounds. Senior Britney Bailey chipped in nine points, while ripping down 15 rebounds on the evening.
Catawba's Lyrik Thorne led all scorer's with 24 points, while Janiya Downs dropped in 21 points for the Indians.
Anderson outrebounded the Wasps 50-38, with the Indians forcing 20 turnovers to AU's 12 forced miscues.
Anderson will travel to SAC opponent Carson-Newman on Saturday. Tip-off is slated for 2 pm.
