(Story courtesy Augusta University)
MORROW, Ga. – Clayton State handed the Augusta University women’s team their first conference loss Wednesday, Jan. 8, snapping a six-game win streak. The final was 66-60.
After trailing for most of the first half, Augusta used a strong third quarter to take a 52-45 lead as they outscored the Lakers 14-5. Clayton State turned the tables and used a 21-8 advantage in the fourth and held on in the closing minutes for the victory.
Quinasia Abercrombie led AU with 16 points and nine rebounds as she continues to have an outstanding year for the Jaguars. Brianna Meekins came off the bench to score nine points with Yamani Paul tallying eight in the losing effort.
In the third quarter, a Paul jumper would put Augusta up 42-41. Mone Florence, Abercrombie and Autumn Phillips scored the next three baskets to give the Jaguars a seven point advantage. That would be the margin at the end of the third with Augusta on top 52-45.
But the final quarter belonged to the home team as the Lakers rallied and with 1:37 left to play retook the lead. AU tied it at 59 on a free throw by Abercrombie, but Clayton State scored the next six points to take the victory.
Neither team shot the ball well as Augusta hit on just 29% of their shots and made just 2 of 14 from three point range. The Jags also turned the ball over 26 times which proved to be costly in the loss. Clayton State shot just 35% but made seven more field goals for the victory.
AU is now 2-1 in Peach Belt Conference play and 10-3 overall. The Lakers improve to 1-2 in conference and 4-9 overall.
Augusta returns to action Saturday afternoon when the Jags travel to USC Aiken for a 1:30 p.m. tip off at the USC Aiken Convocation Center.
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