A strong second half propels the Lady Bears to their third straight victory!

Saturday, November 16, 2024: Women's Basketball

Bay Minette, AL 

The Baton Rouge Lady Bears exhibited resilience, overcoming a sluggish first half to decisively triumph over the Coastal Alabama North Coyotes, securing a 74-51 victory at the Jack Robertson Arena on the campus of Coastal Alabama South.

The initial quarter was marked by difficulties for both teams in establishing their pace, resulting in three lead changes and two ties within the first five minutes. At the 4:48 mark, the score stood tied at 6 points. However, the Lady Bears found their momentum through bench contributions, outscoring the Coyotes 13-7 to conclude the first quarter with a 19-13 advantage.

The Coyotes initiated a 6-3 run in the second quarter, closing the gap to three points at 22-19 with 7:10 remaining. The Lady Bears responded by intensifying their defensive efforts, facilitated by sophomores Frandreka Keller and J'nyria Kelly, which enabled them to extend their lead to 13 points, 37-24, with one minute left in the quarter. Ultimately, the Lady Bears outscored the Coyotes 20-14, leading 39-27 at halftime.

During the intermission, Coach Lee encouraged her team to adopt a more aggressive approach and to enhance their defensive pressure. The Lady Bears responded promptly, emerging from halftime with heightened energy and determination on both ends of the court. This invigorated performance allowed them to convert transition opportunities effectively, contrasting with their first-half struggles. Notably, Freshman guard Kinsley James contributed three consecutive points, increasing their lead to 15 points at 48-33 with 6:17 remaining in the third quarter. The Lady Bears continued to outscore the Coyotes 19-15 in the third period, attaining a 58-42 lead entering the final quarter.

In the fourth quarter, the Lady Bears maintained their defensive intensity and received significant contributions from their bench, culminating in a 16-9 advantage over the Coyotes and securing the victory with a final score of 74-51.

J'nyria Kelly led the Lady Bears with 16 points and 8 rebounds. Two other Lady Bears scored in double figures. The Coyotes were led in scoring by Tajaee Young and Tiffani Goodman, who each contributed 10 points.

With this result, the Lady Bears improved their record to 3-1, while the Coyotes fell to 1-4 for the season.

Lady Bear Highlights:

J'nyria Kelly led the team with 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 steals. 

Kinsley James contributed 11 points and 2 rebounds. 

Akiyah Carnes added 8 points and 6 rebounds. 

The Lady Bears are scheduled to continue their road trip on Thursday, November 21, when they will travel to Senatobia, Mississippi, to compete against the Northwest Mississippi Lady Rangers at 5:30 PM.

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