Franklin Springs, Ga. — The King University women's basketball team battled throughout Monday evening's Conference Carolinas matchup, but a pair of explosive quarters from Emmanuel proved too much to overcome as the Tornado fell 83–69 inside the Shaw Athletic Center. King moves to 11–12 overall and 8–8 in league play, while Emmanuel improves to 12–11 (7–10 CC). A crowd of 113 watched the Lions ride efficient shooting and timely runs to protect their home floor.
Game Flow
Emmanuel set the tone early, shooting a blistering 62.5 percent in the opening quarter to build a 27–13 advantage. King steadied itself in the second period, tightening its defense and finding more rhythm offensively to trim the deficit to 38–31 at halftime.
The third quarter became the turning point. Emmanuel caught fire from deep, knocking down five threes and outscoring King 25–9 to stretch the lead beyond reach. The Tornado refused to fold, erupting for 29 fourth-quarter points behind aggressive drives and improved perimeter shooting, but the Lions' earlier surge held firm.
King Highlights
- Aliyah Hawkins delivered a standout performance, pouring in 24 points, grabbing 7 rebounds, and adding 4 assists while playing all 40 minutes.
- Alayna Smith powered her way to a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds, dominating the interior.
- Jaelyn West added 10 points, 3 assists, and 3 steals, providing energy on both ends.
- Mary Elizabeth Fox contributed 9 points, 4 assists, and 4 rebounds, connecting on three triples.
- Off the bench, Emma Larios and Samantha Lee combined for 10 points, including three made threes.
King finished the night shooting 36.2% from the field and 28.9% from three (11-of-38). The Tornado generated 16 second-chance points and 13 points off turnovers, but struggled to match Emmanuel's efficiency during key stretches.
Emmanuel Effort
The Lions showcased a balanced, high-powered attack with three players scoring 19 or more:
- Natalee Goff: 23 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists
- Naomi Roberts: 22 points, 8 assists, perfect 8-for-8 at the line
- Kate Jackson: 19 points, 9 rebounds, 3 blocks
- Lizzie Teasley: 11 points on 4-of-6 shooting
Emmanuel shot 50% from the field and a scorching 52.2% from three (12-of-23). Their first- and third-quarter surges — combining for 19-of-32 shooting — ultimately created the separation they needed.
Key Stats
| Category |
King |
Emmanuel |
| Field Goal % |
36.2% |
50.0% |
| Three-Point % |
28.9% |
52.2% |
| Rebounds |
29 |
30 |
| Bench Points |
13 |
6 |
| Fast-Break Points |
6 |
10 |
| Points off Turnovers |
13 |
20 |
| Points in the Paint |
24 |
30 |
Conclusion
King showed resilience, especially in a strong fourth-quarter push, but Emmanuel's hot shooting and dominant third quarter proved decisive. Hawkins and Smith led the Tornado with impressive individual efforts, yet the Lions' efficiency from deep and their ability to capitalize on momentum swings carried them to the home victory.
Next Game
King returns to the court on Wednesday, February 18, hosting Southern Wesleyan University at 5:30 p.m. ET.
