AMERICUS, Ga. -- The Georgia Southwestern State University women's basketball team used a balanced offensive night and a season-best performance at the free throw line to secure a 64-53 Peach Belt Conference victory over Lander University on Wednesday evening in the Storm Dome.
Madison Brittle poured in a season-high 26 points to lead all scorers, while
Shane' Jackson recorded her third double-double of the season as the Lady Hurricanes improved to 8-5 overall and 4-2 in league play.
Brittle Sets the Pace Early and Often
Brittle was the offensive catalyst from the opening quarter, scoring 10 points in the first half and continuing to stretch the floor as the game progressed. The junior guard finished 9 of 13 from the field and knocked down 6 of 8 attempts from beyond the arc, repeatedly answering Lander runs and keeping momentum on GSW's side.
Her fourth-quarter three-pointer at the 9:30 mark pushed the Hurricanes' lead to double figures and helped halt a brief Bearcat surge as GSW maintained control throughout the final period.
Jackson Anchors the Paint
Jackson provided a steady presence inside, finishing with 11 points and 10 rebounds while battling through physical play in the paint. The sophomore was a perfect 4-for-4 from the field and added three free throws, helping GSW capitalize at the line during key stretches.
Her tip-in midway through the fourth quarter extended the Hurricanes' advantage to seven and set the stage for a closing run that sealed the win.
Third-Quarter Separation
After a tight first half that featured five ties and seven lead changes, Georgia Southwestern came out of the locker room with renewed energy. The Hurricanes outscored Lander 20-14 in the third quarter, fueled by aggressive drives and efficient free throw shooting.
GSW went 9 of 10 at the line in the third, turning defensive stops into points and building a double-digit cushion that would hold the rest of the way.
Winning the Free Throw Battle
Georgia Southwestern turned in its best performance of the season at the free throw line, sinking 16 of 20 attempts (80 percent). The Hurricanes made trips to the stripe count late, closing the game by hitting eight consecutive free throws over the final four minutes.
Lander, meanwhile, finished just 8 of 17 at the line.
Series Momentum Continues
With the win, Georgia Southwestern has now won three straight meetings against the Bearcats and five of the last six in the all-time series. The Hurricanes held the lead for nearly 33 minutes of game time and limited Lander to 27.4 percent shooting from the floor.
Next Up
The Lady Hurricanes break up their four-game homestand with a trip to Dahlonega, Ga. on Saturday to face the University of North Georgia at 1:30 p.m. before returning home for a pair of home contests next week.
