ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — The No. 22-ranked Columbus State University Women's Basketball team turned in a complete four-quarter performance Saturday afternoon, cruising to an 82-57 Peach Belt Conference win over Flagler College at Flagler Gymnasium.
Columbus State weathered an early push from Flagler before taking control in the second quarter. After the Saints led 19-16 late in the opening period, the Lady Cougars responded with a decisive 25-11 second quarter, using defensive pressure and balanced scoring to build a 41-30 halftime advantage.
The Lady Cougars extended their margin after the break, outscoring Flagler 19-11 in the third quarter and maintaining control throughout the fourth. Columbus State pushed the lead to 27 points late in the game, highlighted by strong bench production and efficient work at the free-throw line, finishing 27-for-36 at the stripe.
Sophia Williams led Columbus State with a game-high 19 points, adding six rebounds and four assists.
Letiya Reeves followed with 15 points and nine rebounds, while
Samara Saunders chipped in 10 points and six boards in just 16 minutes.
Nadea Smith provided a spark off the bench with 14 points, and
Alana Hankerson added 11 points while knocking down three three-pointers. The Lady Cougars finished with 36 bench points and a 46-39 rebounding advantage.
Columbus State capitalized on turnovers, converting 24 points off Flagler miscues, while controlling the paint with a 34-14 scoring advantage inside. The Saints were held to 33.3 percent shooting from the field and committed 29 turnovers.
Columbus State is now 17-3 and11-2 in the Peach Belt, and will continue Peach Belt Conference play on the road Wednesday, February 4, traveling to face Augusta University inside the Christenberry Fieldhouse. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m.
