GREENWOOD - In a tightly contested battle on the road, the Lander Bearcats fell to AUM 70-66 despite a career-high performance by Courtney Nesbitt, who poured in 19 points. While the Bearcats showed grit and determination, untimely turnovers and missed free throws down the stretch made the difference in this close game.
Despite an early basket from Nesbitt, Lander faced a tough start offensively, shooting just 26.7 percent in the opening quarter. AUM's aggressive defense forced the Bearcats into five early turnovers, which the home team turned into fast-break opportunities, giving the Warhawks a 15-10 advantage after the first period.
The second quarter was an offensive showcase, with both teams trading scoring runs. Lander surged behind Trinity Thomas, who nailed three triples, and Nesbitt's consistent inside scoring. Despite outscoring AUM 23-22 in the period, AUM led by four going into the half.Â
The third quarter was a back-and-forth battle as LU fought to close the gap against AUM. The Bearcats held their own, shooting 50 percent for the quarter and converting on several trips to the foul line. The margin, however, remained close as the Bearcats entered the final quarter down 53-48.
The fourth quarter was a nail-biter as Lander rallied to tie the game late at 66-66, with key contributions from Nesbitt and Ryan Elbert. However, the Warhawks' Samya Brooks delivered a clutch jumper in the final 30 seconds, and Andie Flatgard iced the game with two free throws, giving Auburn-Montgomery a 70-66 win.Â
Game Highlights
- Courtney Nesbitt, the junior guard, finished with 19 points on 8-of-15 shooting, along with five rebounds and two steals, a career-best performance despite the loss
- Trinity Thomas (13 points) and Shcira Fowles (14 points, six rebounds) provided solid secondary scoringÂ
- Junior forward Abby Carter hauled in nine rebounds, four offensive and five defensive
- The Bearcats scored 36 points in the paint, showcasing their ability to attack inside effectively
Final Thoughts
"We didn't adjust fast enough, and by the time we found a way to claw back, the hole we dug was too deep to climb out of," stated Head Coach
Nicole "Colie" Shelwick. "How we respond after this break will define what kind of team we truly are. We will learn from this and be better."
UP NEXTÂ
The Bearcats will look to bounce back from the loss in another road contest against Erskine College on Tuesday, Dec. 3. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.
