HATTIESBURG, Miss. — William Carey scored early and often, defeating Thomas University 90-59 Wednesday night in SSAC women’s basketball action.
Thomas started strong, taking an 8–5 lead after a steal and score from LaTarius Montgomery and a jumper by Ameari Logan. However, Carey responded with a 9–0 run, sparked by Leah Sutton’s basket. Alyssa Hillard then hit a three-pointer to give the Lady Crusaders an 10–8 lead.
Carey maintained momentum, with Anna Rose Engle and Bailey Devall adding baskets to extend the lead to 14–8. The Crusaders finished the first quarter ahead 20–13. In the second quarter, Carey’s offense picked up behind Meyah Doyle, Madelyn Ladner and Jenna Garriga. Garriga’s three-pointer at 7:53 pushed the lead to nine, and consecutive baskets from Sherer and Ladner widened the gap to 31–20.
Thomas managed sporadic offense, including a fast-break layup from Zyi’Kiera King and a three from Aaliyah Ringold, but Carey closed the half strong with a 41–29 lead. The Crusaders continued to pull away in the third quarter, outscoring Thomas 21–11. Garriga and Sherer remained hot, while Ladner dominated the boards.
The Night Hawks battled inside with Hill and Logan, but couldn’t find defensive stops as the deficit grew to 62–40 entering the fourth. Carey’s bench took over, with Presley Thompson and Charlie Gamberine combining for four three-pointers, fueling a 28–19 scoring edge in the final period and sealing the victory.
Leading the Crusaders, Ladner scored 14 points with seven assists. Garriga and Sherer each added 12, while Doyle contributed 10 points. William Carey is scheduled to host Abraham Baldwin on Saturday at 12 p.m. at Clinton Gym.
