HARTSVILLE, SC — Coker didn’t have enough to stay with Lees-McRae Saturday afternoon in a 71-55 women’s collegiate basketball defeat.  The Cobras drop to 5-13 overall and 2-9 in the CVAC, while LMC moves to 9-10 and 6-6 in conference.

Coker broke out of the gates well and held a 15-9 advantage midway through the opening period.  The wheels quickly fell off, however, as the Bobcats surged ahead with a 17-0 run in a span of 2:27 to lead 26-15.  Lees-McRae maintained their advantage over the final minutes and went into the half leading 33-21.

An early burst decreased the margin to 36-30 but CC couldn’t maintain the momentum as the Bobcats regained control.  The lead hovered around 20 points the rest of the way until a late flourish created the final 16 point differential.

Sophomore India Elliott/Faison, NC had a good day at the foul line, going 8-8 from the stripe on the way to 17 points and three assists.  Senior Michelle Glover/Beaufort, SC added 13 points, eight boards and three steals, while classmate Shamae Hemingway/Conway, SC finished with 12 points and six rebounds.

Laura Parker led the way for LMC with 18 points and seven steals, while Stephanie Mullinax totaled 17 points and 12 rebounds.  Deanna Lady scored 14 points and Julie Hardison dished out eight assists.

The Cobras had a difficult time handling the ball with 23 turnovers but did own a 39-34 rebounding advantage.  CC made 11-12 attempts from the foul line but managed only 37 percent shooting in the game.

Coker returns home now for a Monday night contest against Erskine College.  The game is scheduled for a 5:30 tip-off.