NE Kentucky News

Slow Start Against TSU Downs Women's Hoops

Women's basketball kept Tennessee State to just 20 percent from 3-point range in a 2-for-10 shooting performance, but fell 61-49 to the Lady Tigers at home Thursday.

The Eagles had two players score in double figures, led by Veronica Charles, who had 17 points, eight rebounds, four assists and four steals. Sophie Benharouga added 10 points and seven rebounds off the bench and Crystal Corley added six points.

Led by Charles' three offensive rebounds, Morehead State did a great job crashing the offensive glass, pulling down 16 boards that resulted in 15 second chance points.

The Morehead State defense was effective at taking away the basketball in Thursday's game, forcing 20 Tennessee State turnovers. Those takeaways turned into 16 points on the other end of the floor. Charles' four steals led the way individually for the Eagles.

The Eagles stay home for a Saturday matinee against Lindenwood. Tip-off is slated for 1:00 PM. 

How It Happened

Morehead State kept it close in the first quarter, but entered the second frame down 9-8.

The Eagles continued to lose ground in the second quarter and faced a 26-22 halftime deficit.

Tennessee State continued to increase its lead after halftime, building a 36-24 advantage before Morehead State went on a 6-0 run, punctuated by a three from Sophie Baydanov, to trim its deficit to 36-30 with 4:05 to go in the third. Tennessee State countered and stretched its lead to 45-34 heading into the fourth. Morehead State knocked down two three-pointers in the quarter to score six of its 12 total points.

Morehead State could not pull any closer in the fourth, losing by a final of 61-49. Morehead State took advantage of its opportunities in the post, scoring 10 of its 15 points in the paint.

Game Notes

» Morehead State played solid perimeter defense, holding Tennessee State to 20 percent from beyond the arc on 10 attempts.

» The Morehead State bench came alive by scoring 26 points to its scoring output.

» The Morehead State defense forced 20 turnovers.

» Morehead State cleaned up on the offensive glass, collecting 16 offensive boards in the game.

» Veronica Charles led the Eagles with a game-high 17 points.

» Morehead State got eight rebounds from both Tolisha Walker and Veronica Charles.

Original source can be found here.