Junior Varsity Basketball Team Wins Inaugural Game
In the inaugural Brenau University junior varsity basketball game, the Golden Tigers defeated Truett-McConnell (Ga.) College 81-76 on Thursday in Cleveland, Ga.
The Golden Tigers used strong defensive play to open the game to jump out to an early 12-2 lead. However, the Bears shot well from three-point range to take a 16-15 lead at the end of the first quarter.
In the second quarter, the Bears continued to shoot well from the outside, knocking down four more three pointers as the Golden Tigers struggled to find consistency, allowing the home team to take a 41-36 lead into the half.
After the intermission, Brenau continued to struggle from the field, while Truett-McConnell continued to shoot well. The Bears jumped out to their largest lead in the game, 57-50, but a Jalyn Brown three pointer late in the quarter helped keep the Golden Tigers close.
In the fourth quarter, the Brenau offense finally found a rhythm as Lia Thomas hit a runner to give the Golden Tigers a 72-71 lead late into the fourth quarter. After a missed Truett-McConnell jumper, Kindole Pettway knocked down one of her two free throws to seal the game.
Thomas led all scorers with 20 points, while fellow freshman Kaylyn Brooks added 14 points and six steals. Pettway added 13 points, while Emily Mote added nine point, eight rebounds and two blocks.
Four Golden Tigers scored in double figures, but the squad struggled from the foul line, knocking down only 11-34 free throws.
"This was a very good learning experience for our players," said head coach Kayla Aiken. "We struggled at times, but played very well in the fourth quarter to pull out the win. I believe that we will continue to improve and have a successful season."
The team next hosts a rematch with Truett-McConnell on November 11th in Gainesville at 5:30 pm.