Golden Tigers Stun Coastal Georgia

A balanced offensive attack and an all-around team effort propelled the Brenau Golden Tigers to a 79-72 win over the College of Coastal Georgia.

In the first half, neither team could seize control as both teams traded baskets throughout the half. Senior guard Anela Durmic (Grayson, Ga.) scored six early points to help keep the Golden Tigers close, while sophomore guard Kalin Williams (Palmetto, Ga.) added nine in the period. Brenau's struggles from the foul line put the Golden Tigers in a 33-30 deficit at the half.

In the second half, Brenau found a rhythm on offense as Williams and senior Brittney Wiley (Royston, Ga.) nailed back to back three pointers to give the Golden Tigers the lead. A driving layup by sophomore Jasmine Williams and a floater from freshman Quinnesha Turner (Winterville, Ga.) extended the Brenau lead to 10 points, while freshman Maegan Kenimer (Gainesville, Ga.) grabbed an offensive rebound and found fellow freshman Nekeia Brown (Danielsville, Ga.) for a layup to increase the lead to 12. Solid foul shooting in the final minute clinched the win for the Golden Tigers.

The Mariners, who came into the game as the top ranked SSAC team, shot 37% (22-60) from the floor, but only 6-25 (24%) from three point range. The Golden Tigers shot 44% (26-59) from the floor and 36% (5-14) from behind the arc.

"I could not be more proud of how hard this team is playing and how we are growing," said head coach Kris Stewart. "We had contributions from a lot of players, including several freshman and sophomores, and it was really enjoyable to watch us mature as a team. This was a great team win for us!"

Kalin Williams led all scorers with 23 points. Wiley added 19, while Turner chipped in 11. Brown recorded her first career double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds.

Olivia Melvin led Coastal Georgia with 17 points.

Brenau (11-9, 6-6 SSAC) next hosts conference rival Emmanuel (Ga.) College at 6 pm on Thursday.