Basketball Downs Union; Sets Record For Wins

The Brenau basketball team used a strong second half performance to defeat Union (Ky.) College 71-67 in Appalachian Athletic Conference play on Saturday in Barboursville, Ky.

The victory secured the program record twentieth win for the Golden Tigers, surpassing the previous high of nineteen wins set last season.

The Union squad came out aggressive as the host Bulldogs took a nine point lead into intermission. After the break, the Golden Tigers cut the lead to seven points with six minutes in the third quarter. Jasmine Knight got a steal and found Ashanti Brown for a layup to cut the score to 43-38 and then Brown made two free throws to cut further into the Bulldog lead. After a defensive stop, Kaylyn Brooks found Autumn Dodson for a wide-open three to cut the lead to one. On the ensuing possession, Brooks shot into a passing lane for a steal and uncontested layup to give Brenau their first lead of the game.

The Golden Tigers increased their lead to eight in the fourth quarter and finished foul shots late in the period to escape with the victory.

"I am so proud of this team for breaking the record for wins in a season," said head coach Kris Stewart. "They competed hard today and had some really good bench support. It was a total team win and a great way to close out the regular season."

Brooks and Dodson each netted 15 points, while Brown tallied 12 points and five rebounds. Lia Thomas added eight points and five boards and Jasmine Knight totaled six points and 11 rebounds.

Brooke Hammonds led Union (11-18 overall, 8-16 AAC) with 13 points.

Brenau (20-9 overall, 15-9 AAC) next competes against Tennessee Wesleyan University in the opening round of the Appalachian Athletic Conference tournament on Thursday in Kingsport, Tennessee.