COLUMBUS – The Columbus State University Women's Basketball team closed out November on a high note Sunday afternoon, defeating the University of West Florida 85-78 inside the Lumpkin Center.
Columbus State set the tone early with a 24-point first quarter and carried a 47-37 lead into halftime. The Lady Cougars forced 33 turnovers, converting them into crucial 30 points that repeatedly stopped West Florida runs.
Freshman
Alana Hankerson delivered a breakout performance off the bench, pouring in a team-high 19 points in just 15 minutes, including three makes from beyond the arc to spark multiple Cougar runs.
Letiya Reeves added 16 points, five rebounds, and two assists, while
Sophia Williams scored 14 points and finished a perfect 8-for-8 at the free-throw line.
Nekaya Williams chipped in 10 points and strong perimeter defense.
Columbus State's depth again proved to be a difference-maker, with the bench contributing thirty-seven points, and the Cougars controlled the transition game with twenty-three fast-break points. Columbus State also outscored West Florida 38-34 in the paint.
With the win, Columbus State moves to 5-1 and now shifts its focus to Peach Belt Conference play. The Lady Cougars open Peach Belt action on Wednesday, December 3, hosting Lander University at the Lumpkin Center with a 5:30 p.m. tip-off.