Women's Basketball Drops Close Game to Truett McConnell

CLEVELAND, Ga.- The women's basketball team fell in a close game on Wednesday. The team dropped their Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) game against the Truett McConnell University Lady Bears 62-57.

The game began with a defensive battle, as both teams struggled to find their offensive rhythm. After an early layup by Truett McConnell's Alexis Brewster, Tennessee Wesleyan responded with a free throw from Ella Crowder. Moments later, Anna Crowder knocked down a three-pointer off an assist from Ella, giving the Bulldogs their first lead at 4-2. However, Truett McConnell took advantage of second-chance opportunities and closed the quarter on a strong run, leading 15-9 after the first 10 minutes.

Tennessee Wesleyan responded with a more balanced offensive effort in the second quarter. Courtney Farr provided a spark with a three-pointer to bring the Bulldogs within one possession at 8-10. The teams traded baskets, with Jaci Powell and Sierra Bates making key contributions off the bench. Late in the quarter, Tennessee Wesleyan capitalized on defensive stops, allowing Anna Crowder to sink a layup and cut the deficit to just one at 22-21. However, a last-second three-pointer from Truett McConnell sent the Bulldogs into halftime trailing 28-24.

The Bulldogs opened the second half aggressively, as Powell drained a three-pointer to pull Wesleyan within three points at 30-27. Despite an early push, Truett McConnell countered with a series of baskets in transition, extending their lead to eight points. Wesleyan continued to battle, with Farr knocking down another clutch shot and Jacelyn Stone converting on a tough layup to keep the Bulldogs within striking distance. The third quarter ended with Tennessee Wesleyan trailing 47-37.

Facing a 10-point deficit, Tennessee Wesleyan ramped up their defensive intensity and offensive execution in the final quarter. Julia Howard and Jacelyn Stone provided crucial baskets, while Abbey Barr came up with a key rebound to set up a fast-break layup. With just over a minute remaining, Stone hit a clutch three-pointer to cut the deficit to 57-50.

As the game entered the final stretch, Tennessee Wesleyan forced turnovers and capitalized at the free-throw line. Talley Lawson converted two free throws, and with 16 seconds left, Anna Crowder drilled a three-pointer to make it a one-possession game at 60-57. However, Truett McConnell held on by making their final free throws, sealing the 62-57 victory.

Anna Crowder led the offense with 17 points.

TWU (12-10, 9-8 AAC) returns to their home floor on Saturday to face the University of Pikeville. The conference game is set for 2:00 p.m.