Basketball Splits in SSAC Play

The Brenau basketball team returned from the break with a loss to the University of Mobile (Ala.), but rebounded to defeat Belhaven (Miss.) University on Saturday in SSAC play.

Against Mobile, the Golden Tigers found themselves in a 26-22 deficit at the half. In the second half, junior Kalin Williams ignited the offense with back-to-back baskets for an 8-0 run. However, the Rams sneaked ahead late to hang on for the win.

Williams led all scorers with 19 points, while Nekeia Brown (SO/Danielsville, Ga.) added 10 points and five rebounds.

Alyssa Nichelson (JR/Jasper, Ga.) added a game-high 11 rebounds.

In the second game of the weekend, the Golden Tigers used a balanced attack to knock off the Blazers.

In the first half, the Golden Tigers struggled to find their rhythm, shooting only 39% as a team. However, junior Claire Zimmerman (JR/Woodstock, Ga.) kept the deficit close with six first half points and helped Brenau take a 37-34 lead into the half.

In the early second half, Brenau extended their lead to 11 with hot shooting from Nichelson and a three-point play by Anikee Combee (JR/Jonesboro, Ga.). However, the Blazers used a 10-0 run to tie up the score with less than five minutes to play. Brenau kept on the attack as Maegan Kenimer (SO/Gainesville, Ga.) scored on a three-point play, while freshman Autumn Dodson (FR/Jefferson City, Tenn.) scored eight late points to seal the win.

Dodson led all scorers with 19 points, while Williams added 15. Briah Woods (SO/Acworth, Ga.) added 13 points to the win.

Ariel Wilson led Belhaven with 18 points.

"My team played very hard in two tough SSAC games," said head coach Kris Stewart. "We couldn't finish against Mobile, but found a balance against Belhaven. We played as a team and worked very hard for the win. I am proud of how the team is improving each game".

Brenau (5-6 overall, 2-3 SSAC) next hosts Auburn-Montgomery (Ala.) University on Friday at 5:30 eastern.