December 4, 2007

 

     Montreat, NC—The Bryan College Lady Lions headed to Montreat, NC on Tuesday morning in search of a third straight conference victory after defeating UVA-Wise and Bluefield on back to back nights last week to open conference play. Unfortunately for the Lady Lions, their hosts, the Montreat College Lady Cavaliers, had other ideas in mind.

     Playing without starting guard Hillary Tipton the Lions struggled defensively, allowing Montreat to shoot 44% from the floor in the first half. The Lady Cavaliers were led by their star, Chazaree Wright, who had 31 points and 11 rebounds for her 7^th consecutive double-double this year. Montreat would shoot 50% on the night to the Lady Lions 33%, resulting in a tough 81-66 loss.

     The Lions did have a few bright spots despite the loss, as Katie Davis led the way with 16 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Courtney Swanson continued to play well, contributing 15 points and 7 rebounds. Swanson has really stepped up her play in conference so far, averaging 11 points and 8 rebounds in the Lions early conference matchups. Ashley Gray also had 12 points for Bryan. Lauren Copeland came off the bench to grab 8 rebounds in just 13 minutes of play.

     Bryan Coach Jamy Bechler was disappointed in the loss, “We just didn’t defend well tonight. Courtney, Katie and Lauren Copeland really played well tonight, but we allowed Montreat’s top scorer to get good looks all night long. We can’t afford to let that happen in conference this year. The competition is too good for us to not play well defensively every time we step on the court. “

     The Lady Lions will look to regroup before taking the floor at Summers Gymnasium this Saturday at 2 PM against The Lady Cobras from Virginia Intermont College.