Stafford’s career night not enough as Brenau drops AAC game in Knoxville
Knoxville, Tennessee - The Golden Tigers came out firing and led the Royals at the half but ultimately fell on the road in AAC play against Johnson (TN) (22-4 overall, and 17-3 AAC).
The game was an offensive explosion in the first half as Brenau hit on nearly 50% of their shots from the field. Reining AAC Defensive Player of the week Kayla Stafford not know for her offensive prowess carried the Golden Tigers with 32 points (career high) 19 rebounds and four blocks. Stafford's previous high of 17 came at Columbia College last season. Stafford and Kristina Peach helped lead Brenau to a slim 39-37 lead at the break.
Brenau did not shoot the ball well in the 3rd quarter and the now league leading Royals capitalized. Hannah Jones led Johnson in the 3rd quarter with 13 points on 6-7 shooting from the field. Jones finished with 23 points and 14 rebounds to lead the Royals. Johnson was able to get to the foul line a good bit this evening and when they did, they were almost perfect going an astounding 22-23 (96%) from the charity strike.
The Golden Tigers were unable to cut into the lead established by Johnson's big 3rd quarter and ultimately fell by double digits. Anna Gliatta had another solid night finished with 15 points in the losing effort.
Along with Jones, Jordan Heifner led the Royals with 19 points and six steals in the victory.
Brenau (7-18 overall, 6-14 AAC) has another quick turnaround as they travel to Columbia (17-10 overall, 10-10 AAC) on Wednesday. Tip-off is at 6:00 pm eastern.