Kingsport, TN. - In a gripping AAC Quarter-finals showdown, the Reinhardt University Eagles women's basketball team clinched a decisive 64-52 victory over the Bryan College Lions on Thursday night, at the MeadowView Marriott in Kingsport, TN in the AAC tournament. This triumph propels the Eagles into the AAC semi-finals, highlighting their dominance on the court.
From the onset, the game presented a thrilling exchange of leads, with both teams showcasing formidable skill. By the end of the first period, Bryan College narrowly led 19-18, but that would be the closest they got to controlling the game. Noelle Lavery, Reinhardt's standout player, kicked off her impressive performance with early scores, including pivotal three-pointers, contributing a game-high 23 points along with 8 rebounds.
The second period saw Reinhardt taking control, thanks to strategic plays and a solid defense, with multiple blocks attributed to Lana Van Dyke (5). Reinhardt ended the first half leading 30-26. The team didn't lose momentum after the break, with contributions from Julia Craft and a notable three-pointer by Kiara Simpson from an assist by I'ziah McCutchins, pushing the lead to 13 points by the end of the third period.
The final period was marked by continued dominance from Reinhardt, effectively maintaining their lead and capping the game with a 12-point lead, reflected in the final score of 64-52. Not only did Lavery lead in scoring, but her defensive plays were crucial, and I'ziah McCutchins also made significant contributions with 6 assists and 2 steals.
Looking forward, the Eagles, now holding a 22-7 record, will face Tennessee Wesleyan in the AAC semi-finals on Friday, February 28th, at 4pm, targeting a spot in the tournament final.
