Women's Basketball Slay Columbia

ATHENS, Tenn.- A strong second half helped the women's basketball team defeat the Columbia College Koalas on Saturday. The team won the AAC game 83-68.

Tennessee Wesleyan wasted no time establishing control, jumping out to an early lead behind Jaci Powell's three-pointer off an assist from Courtney Farr. Despite some early turnovers, the Bulldogs capitalized on second-chance opportunities, with Anna Crowder and Jalaya Lindsey converting key baskets inside. Columbia (SC) kept it close early, but a late layup by Julia Howard helped Wesleyan close the first quarter up 22-15.

Columbia (SC) responded in the second quarter, matching Tennessee Wesleyan basket for basket. While the Bulldogs continued to find success through Powell and Farr, Columbia's perimeter shooting allowed them to cut into the lead. A layup by Alexis Bates and a mid-range jumper from Talley Lawson helped Wesleyan maintain a slim advantage, heading into halftime with a 39-36 lead.

Tennessee Wesleyan came out of the locker room with unmatched intensity, dominating the third quarter with a 30-7 scoring run. The Bulldogs clamped down defensively, forcing multiple turnovers and converting them into fast-break opportunities. Lindsey and Crowder were unstoppable inside, while Powell and Stone knocked down shots from beyond the arc. By the end of the third, Wesleyan had built an insurmountable 69-43 lead, effectively sealing the game.

With a commanding lead, Tennessee Wesleyan managed the clock and maintained composure in the final period. Columbia (SC) attempted a late surge, but Wesleyan's defense remained solid. Farr and Bates controlled the tempo, ensuring there were no costly mistakes in the closing minutes. Despite being outscored 25-14 in the fourth, the Bulldogs' dominant third quarter had already secured the win, finishing with an 83-68 victory.