Bristol, Tenn. – King University women's basketball dropped a tightly contested home matchup on Saturday afternoon, falling 72–68 to UNC Pembroke at the Student Center Complex. The Tornado moved to 4–8 overall and 1–2 in Conference Carolinas play, while the Braves improved to 3–8 (3–1 Conference Carolinas).
Game Flow
King opened strong, taking an 18–15 lead after the first quarter behind efficient shooting from Ellington and Hawkins. UNC Pembroke responded in the second period, outscoring the Tornado 21–12 to carry a 36–30 advantage into halftime.
The Tornado surged back in the third quarter, using a 22–16 run to reclaim momentum and briefly retake the lead. The fourth quarter featured multiple ties and lead changes, but the Braves capitalized late with timely free throws and second-chance points, edging out the four-point victory in a game that saw six ties and seven lead changes.
King Highlights
- Le'Aije Ellington led the Tornado with 15 points on 5-of-8 shooting, including 2-of-3 from three, while going a perfect 3-for-3 at the line.
- Jaelyn West added 12 points, four rebounds, and two assists, knocking down a pair of threes.
- Aliyah Hawkins matched West with 12 points, shooting 4-of-7 from the field and adding three assists and a steal.
- Raven Addison contributed six points, three rebounds, and two assists, providing steady interior play.
- Mary Elizabeth Fox gave King a lift off the bench with 10 points and six rebounds.
- Fallon Taylor added six points in six minutes, shooting a perfect 2-for-2 from the field.
- King shot 40.7 percent from the floor (24-of-59), 27.6 percent from three (8-of-29), and 85.7 percent at the free-throw line (12-of-14).
- The Tornado bench combined for 21 points, continuing to be a reliable source of production.
Key Stats
- Rebounds: UNC Pembroke 46, King 29
- Second-Chance Points: UNC Pembroke 9, King 5
- Points in the Paint: UNC Pembroke 38, King 30
- Points off Turnovers: King 9, UNC Pembroke 6
- Bench Points: King 21, UNC Pembroke 18
Conclusion
Despite a strong third-quarter push and balanced scoring from Ellington, West, and Hawkins, King couldn't overcome UNC Pembroke's dominance on the glass and late-game execution. Bailey's 23-point, 11-rebound performance proved decisive as the Braves held off the Tornado in the final minutes.
Next Game
The Tornado will return to action on
Wednesday, January 7, hosting
North Greenville at the Student Center Complex. Tip-off is scheduled for
2:00 p.m. ET.
