Late run propels Shawnee to 66-55 win. SSU's defense forced Life into 19 turnovers and held them to 38% from the floor
The Bears started off Saturday's contest against Life University with high energy. They got into a press to start the game and were able to force 4 turnovers early. The turnovers kept SSU's intensity high, as they were able to keep LU out of rhythm by getting a hand on a number of shots and passes on defense. The Bears struggled from the field early on only shooting 31.3 % from the field, but ended the quarter with their lead in tact at 14-12.
Two back to back and-one buckets from Life University gave them the lead 19-18 their first since 2-0. SSU was able to take back the lead, as well as their confidence after a three pointer by Jazmine Davis was banked in at the end of the shot clock. The second quarter continued to be a back and forth battle until a few late buckets from Marnae Holland and Tyeisha Smith gave the Bears a 30-24 lead going into the half.
SSU's offense stayed electric to begin the half, jumping out to a 10 point lead. Life University could not get stops and were forced into a time out with 6:53 left in the quarter. The Bears run came to an end after a shooting foul and a technical foul gave LU four shots at the line. Bears managed to hold onto their lead 45-39 to close out the quarter.
The Running Eagles kept momentum to start the fourth quarter, going on a 7-0 run, and causing Shawnee to struggle with turnovers early in the quarter. But the Bears managed to claw their way back to a lead before another back and forth bout. SSU finally found their groove again and went on a 12-2 run to close out the game and walk away with their first conference win of the year, 66-55.
Tyeisha Smith leads all scores with 20 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 assist
Marnae Holland follows closely with 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 assists
The Bears are back in action November 27, as they travel to Adrian, Michigan to take part in the Siena Heights Tournment.
