Golden Tigers Basketball Loses Tight Game to TWU

The Brenau Golden Tigers fell to Tennessee Wesleyan University, 67-61 in a closely played, non-conference matchup.

In the early first half, the Golden Tigers found their shooting stroke as they jumped out to a quick lead. Back to back buckets from Jasmine Butler (Gainesville, Ga.) and Anela Durmic (Grayson, Ga.) gave Brenau an early 15-8 advantage. Midway through the first half, the hot streak continued as Kaitlin Fleming (Mt. Airy, Ga.) hit a three-pointer, and then Claire Zimmerman added a pair of threes to give the Golden Tigers a seven point advantage at the half, 35-28.

Tennessee Wesleyan attacked the Golden Tiger defense, while Brenau struggled from the floor. The hot shooting cooled off as Brenau could not find their rhythm, shooting only 31% in the second half. After a Quinnesha Turner (Winterville, Ga.) driving layup, the Golden Tigers got within two points of the Bulldogs, but were unable to finish the game.

Butler led the Golden Tigers with 19 points and six rebounds. Kalin Williams (Palmetto, Ga.) added 10 points and five rebounds. Zimmerman added six points on 2-3 three-point shooting.

Armeka Booker led the Bulldogs with 22 points. Shira Buley added 14 points.

"We took another big step today as we played a very good Tennessee Wesleyan team even for most of the game," said head coach Kris Stewart. "We had some illnesses with some of our players today, but the team pushed through and we had some very nice performances. Our next step is finishing off games and I have complete faith in this group of young ladies".

Brenau travels to the Emmanuel (Ga.) Classic on Friday to play Southeastern (Fl.) University at 6:00.