LADY COUGARS TAKE EARLY LEAD; HOLD OFF COLUMBIA FOR VICTORY
Cleveland State built as much as a 20 point lead in the second half before withstanding a fourth quarter push from Columbia State as they pulled out a 77-68 win. The Lady Cougars played without two of their main cogs as both Leisa Butler and Keya Jenkins were held out with different injuries.
They were able to build a 43-27 halftime advantage behind the play of Abby Hubert and Toniya Hurst. Hubert tallied 10 of her team high 13 points in the first half while Hurst scored her eight in the second quarter.
They would lead 62-44 at the conclusion of the third quarter, but saw the hosts outscore them 24-15 in the final frame as the Lady Cougars substituted freely trying to get new players some game experience.
Bree Nixon (pictured) was right behind Hubert with 12 points while Kyla Braden also finished in double figures with 11. Portia Turner finished with a team high ten rebounds and five steals to go with nine points. Hurst also finished with five rebounds. Jatasha Hollinger, Braden, and Julia Gaither each finished with four assists.
