Boxscore


RALEIGH, N.C. – Saint Augustine's College turned a tight game against Virginia State University into a 75-57 CIAA women's basketball rout Monday (Jan. 9) with its usual formula – defense and rebounding.
 
The Lady Falcons (7-5, 2-0 CIAA) forced 26 turnovers with their full-court pressure which led to 31 points. They also dominated the backboards 55-36 including an 18-9 edge on the offensive glass. It added up to a second consecutive victory for the Lady Falcons, who lead the CIAA in scoring, rebounding and turnover margin. The Lady Falcons, who are undefeated inside Emery Gymnasium at 4-0, rank fifth in Division II in turnover margin.
 
No player exemplified the Lady Falcons' passion for aggressive defense and rebounding more than sophomore forward Umeka Benson (Charlotte, N.C.). Last season's league rookie of the year, Benson led the Lady Falcons with five steals and 11 rebounds in addition to 19 points.
 
Senior guard Keianna Evans (Fayetteville, N.C.) added four steals which led to many of her 17 points. Junior guard Jolisa Williams (Charles City, N.C.) finished with three steals to cap an all-around game which included 11 points and a game-high seven assists. Senior center Keyona Bryant (Springdale, Md.) was effective in the paint with 14 points and nine rebounds.
 
Overall, the Lady Falcons amassed 17 steals. They had five steals including three by Benson during a 16-2 run in first six minutes of the second half to extend a 30-27 halftime lead to 46-29. The Lady Falcons led by double digits the rest of the game.
 
Their defense led to easy baskets on the other end. It increased the Lady Falcons' shooting percentage to 54 percent in the second half after shooting 24 percent in the first half.
 
Jasmine Stewart scored 15 points and Quiana Kizer added 10 points and seven rebounds for the Lady Trojans (8-7, 0-3 CIAA), who struggled against the Lady Falcons pressure. They never found their shooting eye, either, as they shot 34 percent in a physical game in which 64 fouls were whistled.
 
The Lady Falcons are home for the third straight time Thursday (Jan. 12). They host Virginia Union at Emery Gymnasium at 5:30 p.m. Follow the action via live stats at www.saintaugfalcons.com