Hornets Slip Past Golden Tigers

The Brenau basketball team fell to Morris (S.C.) College 90-80 in non-conference matchup on Tuesday in Gainesville.

Both teams traded baskets throughout the first half as neither team found an early offensive rhythm. Alyssa Nichelson (JR/Jasper, Ga.) knocked home an early three-pointer, while freshman Autumn Dodson (FR/Jefferson City, Tenn.) nailed another three-pointer to give the Golden Tigers a 25-20 lead. The game stayed close throughout the period, but Morris used a late 10-2 run to finish the half to take a 40-35 lead into the break.

In the second half, the Golden Tigers went on the attack as Kalin Williams (JR/Palmetto, Ga.) scored 14 of her 24 points to lead the charge. Consecutive baskets by Maegan Kenimer (SO/Gainesville, Ga.) and Claire Zimmerman (JR/Woodstock, Ga.) got the Golden Tigers within one point with less than four minutes to go, but the Hornets answered every Brenau run with timely baskets and clutch free throws to slip away with the win.

"We did a good job in the second half scoring in transition and in the half court," said head coach Kris Stewart. "We weren't sharp early and that was the difference. Morris is a dangerous offensive team and they hit some very tough shots. The result wasn't what we hoped for, but this was a good game for us as we head back into conference play."

Williams led the Golden Tigers with 24 points and six rebounds. Briah Woods (SO/Acworth, Ga.) added 16 points and six rebounds, while Zimmerman chipped in 10.

Baylee Hawkins led Morris with a game high 25 points.

Brenau (8-9 overall, 3-5 SSAC) gets back into SSAC play on Tuesday when they play host to Blue Mountain (Miss.) College.