In a hectic first half the Crusaders (16-7, 12-4) broke open a nip-tuck affair when they switched to a 2-3 zone defense. Coker (5-16, 2-12) had little trouble breaking Abbey’s full court press early and converted on multiple layups to stay close. BAC proved to be equally effective on offense and shot 59 percent in the period on the way to a 50-30 advantage.
Belmont Abbey’s offensive efficiency continued after the break to the tune of 58 percent shooting for the game. Abbey maintained a 20 point lead throughout the half as Coker couldn’t hit from outside to pull the Crusaders out of their zone defense.
Senior Shamae Hemingway/Conway, SC led the team with 18 points and eight rebounds while freshman Tyesha Ervin/Darlington, SC totaled 12 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Junior Ashley White/Mt. Airy, MD finished with nine points, nine rebounds and three assists.
Five players reached double-digits for the Crusaders with Debra Wilcox’s 22 points, nine rebound and six assists leading the way. Jevorah Whitfield poured in 19 points and surpassed the 1,000 point mark for her career and Nicole Woods added 13 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists. Valerie Bennett scored 12 points and Heather Schleupner finished with 11 markers.
Coker travels to