WILBERFORCE, Ohio. - The Lawrence Technological University women's basketball team staged a thrilling second-half rally on Wednesday night, overcoming a 17-point deficit to defeat Wilberforce University 72–70 at the Gaston F. Lewis Arena in Wilberforce, Ohio. With the victory, the Blue Devils improved to 2–1 on the season.
Wilberforce seized control early, erupting for 25 first-quarter points and pushing their lead to as many as 17 points at 25–8 late in the opening period. LTU trailed 39–27 at halftime before coming out fired up in the third quarter. Powered by an offensive explosion, the Blue Devils outscored the Bulldogs 30–20 in the third frame to pull within two points at 59–57 heading into the final quarter.
The fourth quarter was a back-and-forth battle down to the final seconds. Sydney Garon drained a clutch three-pointer with 2:15 remaining to tie the game at 69–69. After Wilberforce split a pair of free throws, Averi Peot scored a go-ahead layup with 48 seconds left to give LTU a 71–70 lead. Addy Barnes added a free throw with 14 seconds remaining, and the Blue Devils' defense held firm on the game's final possession to lock up the narrow two-point road win.
Barnes led the offense for Lawrence Tech with a team-high 17 points, knocking down three 3-pointers and shooting 4-for-7 from the free-throw line. Ella Haupert scored 13 points, grabbed 8 rebounds, and dished out 4 assists, while Liv Linden also hit double figures with 13 points. Peot dominated the boards with 9 rebounds to go along with 9 points and a block, and Paetyn Miller added 9 points off the bench. Wilberforce was paced by Asia Cochran and Laniya Early, who scored 21 points apiece.
Lawrence Tech will look to keep the momentum going as they continue their non-conference road swing.
