Jackson, Miss. — Belhaven University’s women’s basketball team defeated Piedmont 66-47 Saturday at Rugg Arena. The Blazers improved to 15-4 overall and 8-3 in conference play.
Belhaven forced 29 turnovers, converting them into 25 points, and limited Piedmont to 28.6 percent shooting for the game. The Blazers controlled the second half on both ends of the floor.
The first quarter was marked by back-and-forth momentum swings. Piedmont’s Kylie Watkins hit a three and added free throws to briefly give the Lions the lead. Alexandria Willis contributed on the glass and inside, helping Piedmont close the quarter on a 7-0 run to lead 20-17.
The second quarter saw Belhaven respond with energy and defensive pressure. A 7-0 run, sparked by transition baskets and free throws, helped the Blazers regain the lead. Veronica Williams hit a fast-break three, and Katelyn Coleman scored in the paint, pushing Belhaven ahead. The Blazers closed the half on an 8-2 run to lead 35-27 at halftime.
Belhaven came out strong after halftime. Defensive intensity sparked a 10-1 run to start the third quarter, pushing the lead into double figures. Piedmont struggled to find offense, managing only two free throws and a late tip-in during the period. The Blazers led 47-35 entering the final quarter.
In the fourth quarter, Belhaven maintained control. Jenkins scored inside early, and Williams added a fast-break layup to stretch the lead to 15. Piedmont’s Gracie Deetz scored twice in the paint, trimming the margin to 11, but Belhaven responded with a 12-2 run. Coleman, Williams, and Jones contributed key baskets, sealing the victory. The Blazers held Piedmont to 12 points in the quarter and finished strong at the free-throw line.
Williams led all scorers with 19 points. Jenkins added 14 off the bench, while Coleman contributed 12 points and six rebounds. Three players finished in double figures for Belhaven.
The team will next face Asbury on Thursday at 4 p.m. in conference play.
Follow @BelhavenBlazers on Twitter and Instagram for updates, and like Belhaven Athletics on Facebook. Supporters can visit Team Green Giving to contribute to the program.
