BLUFFTON, S.C. -- The Georgia Southwestern State University women's basketball wrapped up its opening weekend with two competitive battles at The Cove on the campus of USC Beaufort, highlighted by strong guard play, big scoring stretches, and the early-season emergence of newcomer
Ray'ven Robinson. The Hurricanes opened the weekend with a late push against UVA Wise on Friday before falling just short in a tight Saturday matchup with Ferrum - a program in its first season at the NCAA Division II level.
FRIDAY - UVA Wise 68, GSW 64
In the first-ever meeting between the programs, GSW overcame a tough first quarter, falling behind by as many as 17 points, to climb back into contention against UVA Wise, ultimately dropping a 68-64 decision despite a spirited second-half rally.
Robinson led the Lady Hurricanes with 17 points off the bench, sparking a turnaround that saw GSW win both the third and fourth quarters.
Makenzie Kelly added 14 points, including a perfect 3-for-3 from beyond the arc, while
Tiara Hozumi and
Destinee Nelson supplied timely offense during the comeback.
GSW trailed 22-7 after the opening period but stormed back behind a 22-point third quarter - their highest-scoring frame of the game. The Hurricanes cut the deficit to a single possession multiple times late, but UVA Wise forward Caroline Mullins (22 points, 12 rebounds) delivered key baskets to hold off the rally.
SATURDAY - Ferrum 60, GSW 57
The Hurricanes came out firing on Saturday, opening with a 23-point first quarter, to jump ahead early in another first-ever matchup. Robinson stayed hot, scoring a team-high 14 points with six rebounds and five assists, while
Hannah Simmons added 11 points and
Shane' Jackson posted eight points and six boards.
GSW built a nine-point lead after the first quarter and pushed the margin to 12 early in the second, but Ferrum - competing in its inaugural NCAA Division II season - responded behind standout forward Sofia Ponce (21 points, 10 rebounds). A 15-10 Ferrum edge in the third quarter tightened the game to 49-49 entering the fourth.
Robinson gave the Hurricanes a 52-49 lead to start the final period, but Ferrum answered with an 11-3 run. Despite multiple defensive stops in the closing minute, GSW's potential tying looks from beyond the arc wouldn't fall as the Panthers held on, 60-57.
Robinson's Impact
Across the weekend, Robinson averaged 15.5 points, consistently sparking GSW's offense and showing an early knack for shot creation and tempo control. She led the Lady Hurricanes with eight assists and was second on the team in both steals (3) and blocks (3). Robinson was well above the team average in areas the Lady Hurricanes need to improve. GSW struggled at the charity stripe over the two games, sinking 22 of 42 attempts, and was held to 34.4 percent shooting overall.
Next Up
- GSW continues its early-season road swing on Wednesday with a trip to Valdosta State University for 6 p.m. contest.
