|
The Georgia Southern Women’s Basketball team (13-9, 8-5) pulled off back-to-back wins against the Western Carolina Catamounts (3-19, 2-11), marking the second sweep of the season. GSU now leads the series 10-5.
The Eagles’ momentum shifted back and forth, but the Catamounts couldn’t hold on as GSU walked away with the win, 62-48. Head Coach Rusty Cram is 20-10 against Western Carolina and marked the 43rd time these teams have faced off in program history.
The Eagles were scheduled to play the Catamounts at home back in December, but the game was rescheduled due to severe weather that withheld Western Carolina from being able to travel.
J’Lisia Ogburn led the pack with 18 points, seven rebounds, and one steal. Jamie Navarro finished second with 13 points, two rebounds, and two steals.
WCU won the tip-off but missed their first shot attempt. Navarro and Ogburn made back-to-back shots in the paint to give the Eagles an early six point lead. GSU came out very strong defensively, and didn’t waste anytime putting points on the board.
The Eagles’ pressure on the Catamounts took effect on their points in the paint, but didn’t stop their buckets from behind arc as Emily Clarke contributed two 3-pointers.
Towards the end of the first half, the Eagles’ momentum began to slip as the Catamounts took a one point lead. The Catamounts led at the half 25-24.
Jessica Geiger opened the Eagles’ scoring drive for the second half. Ogburn was charged with a foul from her shot block, but quickly got revenge from the penalty with a nice spin around to the basket.
Krista Tate brought the Eagles back by one and from there, GSU marked their territory.
CarolynWhitney was silent on the night with six points, but Coach Cram does not doubt her playing ability.
“She just wasn’t hitting. Some nights you’re hot, some nights you’re not. She played good defense, but we have other people when she’s not getting it done to step in,” said Cram.
Whitney has tied her season high 17 points in scoring for the fourth time this season.
Tate continues to be a major contributing factor by continuing to score in double-digits and going 24-32 from the free throw line.
Navarro is currently ranked third in the nation and her charity strip shooting average stands at 91.8 percent. Coach Cram acknowledged her outstanding accomplishment.
“I’m extremely proud, that’s why at the end of the ball game we want the ball in her hands. She’s a pretty cool, calm, and collected kid. She’s a player that every coach would love to have on their team,” said Cram.
GSU is proving to be a dominant force in the Southern Conference. With all the players healthy, look for the Eagles to make a good run in the postseason.
The Eagles improve their record to 13-0 while competing in Spartanburg.
GSU is on a five game winning streak and looks to continue their winning stance Saturday, Feb. 6, against the Mocs of Chattanooga. Tip off is set for 3 p.m. at Hanner Fieldhouse.
|
