BANNER ELK, N.C – The University of North Georgia women's basketball team defeated Lees-McRae 68-67 in their season opener at the Peach Belt Conference/Conference Carolinas Challenge. A sluggish first half forced the Nighthawks to make a second half surge to climb back from a nine-point halftime deficit and take the victory after a missed three-pointer by LMC's Jala Holloman at the buzzer.
Caroline Martin led all scorers with 17 points. She added eight rebounds, good enough for second on the team.
Niyah Lutz scored 16 points in her first game in a North Georgia uniform.
Kayla Massop led the team defensively and on the glass recording a team high nine rebound with two blocks and a steal. Seven of her nine rebounds came on the offensive end.
Key Moments
- Lees-McRae took a 23-13 lead in the first quarter after the Nighthawks shot just 22% from the field while LM made six three-pointers in the first quarter.
- Massop's seven offensive rebounds allowed the Nighthawks to score 15 second chance points in the game.
- North Georgia shot 57% in the third quarter and 55% in the fourth to claw their way back into the game.
- The Nighthawks allowed just two made three pointers after the first quarter.
- Sandra Mason led three Bobcats in double figures with 13 points as she was a perfect 3-for-3 from long range.
Next Up
North Georgia will host Tusculum in Lynn Cottrell Arena on Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 5:30 p.m. in the team's home opener. Tusculum defeated Mount Olive in their season opener, 65-50.
