League Leading Lee Defeats Brenau

Cleveland, TN - Sophomore Sarah Ward got her first start last night and made the most of it, scoring a career high 12 points, but the Brenau Golden Tigers (11-13, 3-10) weren't enough for the #10 Lee Flames (22-4, 12-1), falling 71-52. Ward hit 4-5 three point shots and added two steals on the night. Freshman Tatiana Khudiakova added 15 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals for one of her better outings. Lee's All American Brooke McKinnon had 19 points to lead the Flames.

Lee jumped out to an 11-1 advantage to start the game and the Tigers were never able to recover, hitting only 9-31 (.290) from the field in the first half. The Flames were firing at a .484 clip and built a 20 point halftime bulge, 43-23. Lee's pressure was also a factor, forcing 15 turnovers in the first stanza. Things evened out considerably in the second half, with Brenau shooting .375 and committing nine turnovers. Lee cooled off from the field (.304) and the Tigers were able to close to 62-46 at one point. Once again, free throws were a factor, with the Flames going to the line 29 times compared to 13 for the Tigers.

"We got off to a horrible start and weren't able to mount a substantial run," said Coach Bays. "Lee is a top 10 team and you can't afford to let them gain momentum. I was proud of the way we hung in there and made a game of it in the second half."

Brenau will return to the friendly confines of the Tiger Gym when they host Truett McConnell at 6 pm on Thursday.