INSIDE THE MATCHUP

Final: Shorter 56, Converse 47

SUMMARY:

In a pivotal conference showdown on January 4, 2025, the Shorter University Hawks made a spectacular comeback against the Converse Valkyries at Tom & Tracy Hannah Gym in Spartanburg, SC, concluding in a thrilling 56-47 victory. This was the first time each school competed against each other in any athletic competition. The game was marked by intense battles and strategic plays, as the Hawks overcame a 7-point halftime deficit to clinch the win.

The first half saw the Hawks trailing with a score of 23-30. However, under the guidance of Coach Brooks, they recalibrated their strategy focusing predominantly on a tight defensive setup. The Hawks jumped out on a 13-5 run to erase the Valkyries halftime lead. This run was fueled by the Hawks stifling defense as they forced 7 turnovers during this span. The Hawks ended the quarter leading by 1 point (40-39).

The 4th quarter went much like the 3rd quarter. The Hawks continued to push the ball in transition thanks to turnovers and great rebounding. Emariah Grant scored 5 points off the bench in the 4th quarter. The Hawks cleaned up the boards in the 2nd half only allowing 2 offensive rebounds to the Valkyries. The defense was stifling, holding Converse to 0 baskets after the 4:47 mark of the 4th quarter. Derrica McCall led the scoring for the Hawks with 17 points, supported by Tiara Lewis who scored 12 points, and Emariah Grant with 9 points. The team demonstrated a robust defense and efficient scoring, particularly in the paint, with significant contributions off the bench totaling 13 points. Key statistics from the game included 28 points in the paint, 6 second chance points, 8 fast break points, and 19 points off turnovers, indicating a solid all-round performance. The game's dynamism was highlighted by 9 lead changes and 4 tied scores, showcasing the evenly matched nature of the competition.


NOTEWORTHY:

· Derrica McCall led the way with 17 points and 6 steals

· Tionna Baker contributed with 4 points, 4 steals, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists

· Tiara Lewis added 12 points and 6 rebounds

· Tori Smiley produced 6 points and 6 rebounds

· Shorter outscored Converse 33 – 17 in the second half

· The Hawks forced Converse into 23 turnovers


WORDS FROM THE HAWKS:

"I'm proud of my team. We responded to a 7-point halftime deficit by locking into our defense. This season that's been our focus, defending as one unit and in the 2nd half that's exactly what we did. Holding Converse to single digits in both the 3rd and 4th quarters speaks volumes." – Head Coach LaSheena Brooks


ON THE HORIZON:

Looking forward, the Hawks are set to face Young Harris on January 8, aiming to build on their current record of 8-2, and 3-1 in the Conference Carolinas.