Belmont, N.C. – The King University women's basketball team opened Conference Carolinas play on Tuesday evening with a competitive matchup against Belmont Abbey at the Wheeler Center. In a contest defined by momentum swings and resilient play, the Tornado came up short in the closing minutes, falling 66–60.
Competitive First Half
King (1–4, 0–1 Conference Carolinas) established an early rhythm, shooting 53.8 percent in the opening quarter and connecting on four three-pointers to secure an 18–15 lead. The Tornado defense continued to pressure Belmont Abbey in the second period, but offensive struggles limited King to 11 points, allowing the Crusaders to edge ahead 29–27 at halftime.
Third Quarter Shift
Belmont Abbey (4–1, 1–0 Conference Carolinas) seized control in the third quarter, outscoring King 24–16. The Crusaders capitalized at the free-throw line, converting 8-of-10 attempts, while King cooled from the perimeter. Belmont Abbey carried a 53–44 advantage into the final frame.
Tornado Push in the Fourth
King mounted a rally in the fourth quarter, cutting into the deficit with balanced scoring and defensive intensity.
Riley Nelson provided a spark off the bench, leading the Tornado with 17 points on 7-of-13 shooting, while
Aliyah Hawkins added nine points from beyond the arc.
Mary Elizabeth Fox anchored the effort on the boards with eight rebounds. Despite narrowing the gap, Belmont Abbey matched King point-for-point down the stretch to secure the win.
Team Contributions
King demonstrated depth with 28 bench points and 32 points in the paint.
Ashley Allen contributed six points and five rebounds, while
Alayna Smith added six points and three steals. The Tornado forced 18 Belmont Abbey turnovers, converting them into 15 points, but could not overcome the Crusaders' efficiency at the free-throw line.
Belmont Abbey Leaders
The Crusaders were paced by
Leigha Dennison (12 points, 7 rebounds) and
Riley James (11 points, 7-of-8 free throws). Belmont Abbey's bench proved decisive, adding 30 points, including seven from
Valeria Batista and six from
Reagan Iovino.
Looking Ahead
Despite the narrow defeat, King showcased resilience and competitive balance in its conference opener. With strong individual performances and contributions across the roster, the Tornado demonstrated promise as Conference Carolinas play continues.
