Tigers Rebound With Win Over Morris (SC)
Photo by Nick Dentamaro
Raven Crawford (Toccoa, GA) scored a season high 15 points and pulled down 7 rebounds in a 69-47 victory over the Morris College (SC) Hornets.
From the opening tip, the Brenau Golden Tigers took control, attacking the Hornet defense. Back to back layups by Tala Black (Marietta, GA) and Gabby Harvey (Lilburn, GA) and an early three pointer by Sarah Ward (Elberton, GA) stretched the early Brenau lead to 12-4.
The Brenau attack continued throughout the first half, with strong play from the bench. Junior wing Kaitlin Fleming (Mt. Airy, GA), dropped in a 3 point basket, while freshman Claire Zimmerman (Woodstock, GA) added a strong driving layup to finish the first half with 36-28 lead.
The second half continued much of the same offensive balance as Brenau increased their lead to twenty points. Crawford attacked the Morris defense with an array of skills- scoring 10 of her 15 points in the 2nd half. The junior post from Toccoa, GA combined her scoring with unselfish play, assisting on four second half baskets.
Coach Kris Stewart noted that he was pleased with the performance, "I was a little concerned with having a letdown after such an emotional game with Emmanuel. However, we spent time in practice working on details and I think it showed today. I was pleased with the play of our bench, as they brought a lot of balance to our team today."
Coach Stewart also mentioned the play of Crawford, noting that, "Raven is such a well-rounded player- very unselfish and an excellent passer. She is undersized for the post, but that speaks to her toughness. She played very well today and showed her versatility. Sometimes she is overlooked statistically, but she does a lot of little things that make us better".
Brenau shot 45% from the field and 40% from the 3 point line. Morris College shot 25% from the field and 25% from the line. In addition to Crawford's contributions, Harvey also contributed 11 points, 14 rebounds and 2 blocks. Hannah Thomas led Morris with 15 points.
Brenau will pick up conference play on Thursday with a game at Southern Poly State University. The game is scheduled for a 6pm start in Marietta, GA.