MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. – The Columbus State University Women's Basketball team came up just short Wednesday night, falling 70-68 to Georgia College & State University in a tightly contested Peach Belt Conference match-up at the Centennial Center.
Georgia College controlled the tempo early, building a 20-10 advantage after the opening quarter and extending its lead to as many as 13 points in the first half. Columbus State settled in during the second quarter, trimming the deficit to five at halftime, 36-31, behind improved shooting and defensive pressure.
The Lady Cougars continued to battle in the second half, using aggressive defense and transition offense to stay within striking distance. Columbus State outscored the Bobcats 20-16 in the fourth quarter and closed within two points in the final minute, but Georgia College converted key free throws down the stretch to hold on for the win.
Alana Hankerson led Columbus State with 17 points on 7-of-19 shooting, while
Jamilah Jackson provided a strong spark off the bench with 14 points in 15 minutes of action.
Simone Lett added eight points, and
Nekaya Williams chipped in 10 points, six rebounds, and five assists.
Sophia Williams had nine rebounds, five assists, and five steals in an all-around effort.
Columbus State forced 27 turnovers and scored 28 fast-break points, while the bench contributed 30 points.
With the result, Columbus State moves to 12-3 overall and 6-2 in Peach Belt Conference play. The Lady Cougars will return to action on Saturday, January 17, traveling to Americus, Ga., to face Georgia Southwestern State University inside the Storm Dome. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m.
