ANDERSON, S.C. – Paced by Diamond McDowell 28-point effort, Anderson University women's basketball (18-9, 14-7 SAC) led wire-to-wire to defeat top-tier Wingate (16-9, 15-6 SAC), 78-56, on Wednesday evening at the Abney Athletic Center.

"Big win for us tonight at home against a top team in the conference," said head coach Jonathon Barbaree. "Loved how we shot with confidence tonight and defended on the other end." 

"Diamond set the tone with a huge performance.and Zee and Diamond connected well all game," noted Barbaree. "It was great to see both of them clean up the defensive rebounds as well. Zaynah really got hot in the first half knocking down the three and opening the door for others to do the same."

"Big congrats to Zee for reaching the career 2000 point mark," boasted Barbaree. "She had some strong years at Lander and has continued that here closing in on 1000 in just two seasons."

"Huge senior day this Saturday," added Barbaree. "Hopefully everyone can attend to cheer us on."

The Trojans started the game with a 10-0 run and never looked back building a 28-point lead in the third quarter of action. Anderson continued to push the pace earning an important late season victory over the Bulldogs.

AU's McDowell earned her 14^th double-double of the season and her sixth straight adding 17 rebounds to her 28 points. Freshman Zaynah Preston drained a career-high five three-point baskets on eight attempts scoring 15 points. Preston also grabbed six rebounds and was credited with three assists. Freshman Rose Gravel made the most of her 18 minutes of action chipping in 10 points and ripping down five rebounds. Senior Zamiya Passmore continues to flirt with a triple-double netting seven points, hauling in nine rebounds and dropping eight dimes. Passmore surpassed the 2,000 career point total in her impressive career.

Wingate's Laney Beale was the lone double-figure scorer for the Bulldogs dropping in a team high 14 points.

Anderson out rebounded Wingate, 52-37, while recording eight block shots on the evening.

The Black and Gold remain at home to host Emory & Henry on Saturday. Tip-off is slated for 2 pm with senior recognitions beginning prior to the contest.