Winston-Salem, NC -- The Lady Bruins stretched their winning streak after Saturday afternoon's match versus NCAA DIII Greensboro College (13-4).
Saturday's result was quite different from the Bruins loss against Greensboro College earlier in the season, 80-66. The Lady Bruins sought revenge as they earned a 54-50 win over the Pride this time around.
"I think I just tried to keep the girls positive and uplifted," explained Coach
Toccara Tatum on what changed within her team from the last sighting with Greensboro College to now. "[We are] trying to keep our mental toughness and heads in the game. Sometimes we seem to beat ourselves and give up. [The goal] was to keep the team focused, positive and staying in the game mentally."Â
The Lady Bruins took control of the scoreboard in the second quarter, finishing 31-24 at the half. PIU held onto the lead until the final quarter. With 2 minutes left in regulation, it was any teams game with the score tied at 47. The Bruins responded to the challenge, especially
Ashley Lane who drew fouls from the Pride.
A final defensive block from
Noni Kuumba shut the Pride's chance of tying up the game and pushing into overtime.
Noni Kuumba led PIU with 16 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 blocks.
Malayah Montgomery,
Zyniah Kesler, and
Mychala Wolfe posted 8 points each.
"[We] finally have everything going the way we like; all the pieces are finally coming together. We're working hard. Everyone has bought into the program and are contributing to the success. I think [this game] just shows the girls that we can do anything we put our minds to."Â
The Lady Bruins will have a break from play until next Friday, Jan. 25 when they head to Warren Wilson College. Tip-off is at 6:00 PM.