ROME, Ga. – The King University women's basketball team put together a complete effort on Thursday evening, earning a 68–60 road win over Shorter inside the Winthrop-King Centre. The Tornado improved to 7–10 overall and 4–6 in Conference Carolinas play, while the Hawks dropped to 10–8 (8–3 Conference Carolinas).
Game Flow
King opened the night with confidence, taking a 21–17 first-quarter lead behind efficient perimeter shooting and steady ball movement. Aliyah Hawkins knocked down four threes in the game, including two in the opening period, helping the Tornado establish early momentum.
The Tornado continued to dictate the pace in the second quarter. Despite shooting just 30 percent from the field, King consistently attacked the paint and earned trips to the free-throw line, converting 10 attempts in the period. Defensively, King held Shorter to 13 points and carried a 38–30 advantage into halftime.
King's defense delivered its strongest stretch in the third quarter, limiting the Hawks to just eight points on 18.2 percent shooting. Emma Larios provided a spark with aggressive drives and a timely three-pointer, while Alayna Smith controlled the glass. The Tornado extended their lead to 53–38 heading into the fourth.
Shorter made a late push in the final period, scoring 22 points behind improved shooting and second-chance opportunities. However, King maintained composure down the stretch. Hawkins' fourth three-pointer and Larios' free throws helped the Tornado withstand the rally and secure the eight-point victory.
King Highlights
- Alayna Smith led King with 14 points and 9 rebounds, going 6-for-8 at the line.
- Aliyah Hawkins added 14 points, all from long range, while contributing 5 assists and 2 steals.
- Emma Larios posted 13 points, 4 assists, and went 8-for-11 at the stripe.
- Jaelyn West recorded 8 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists.
- Mary Elizabeth Fox grabbed 8 rebounds and added 6 points.
- King pulled down 42 rebounds, including 14 offensive boards.
- The Tornado shot 75.9 percent from the free-throw line.
Key Stats
| Category |
King |
Shorter |
| Rebounds |
42 |
36 |
| Points in the Paint |
22 |
28 |
| Points off Turnovers |
14 |
18 |
| Second-Chance Points |
15 |
19 |
| Bench Points |
20 |
16 |
| Fast Break Points |
7 |
6 |
| Three-Pointers |
8 |
4 |
King's rebounding advantage and perimeter shooting proved decisive, while Shorter's struggles from three (4-for-20) and at the free-throw line (53.8%) limited their comeback efforts.
Conclusion
King showcased balance and poise throughout the night, building an early lead and maintaining control with strong defense and timely scoring. Hawkins' perimeter shooting, Smith's interior presence, and Larios' playmaking highlighted a well-rounded team performance. Despite Shorter's late surge, the Tornado's composure and free-throw shooting secured the road win.
Next Game
The Tornado return to action on Saturday, January 31, traveling to Emmanuel for a 2:00 p.m. matchup.
