Box Score JACK ROBERTSON ARENA | BAY MINETTE, Ala. - Coastal Alabama - South Women's Basketball protected its home floor in dramatic fashion Monday night, Feb. 2, edging Southern Union State (Ala.) 68-65 in a tightly contested conference matchup. The win puts the Coyotes back in the win column, with the ACCC record on the season sitting at 2-4 on the year. Additionally, the overall record improves to 14-6 following the win.
How It Happened
In a game that featured multiple momentum swings, the Coyotes relied on clutch defense, a strong effort on the glass, and timely free throws down the stretch to secure the three-point victory. The 'Yotes trailed the Bison by just one point at halftime, but managed 15 points in each of the final two quarters, while holding Southern Union to only 26 second-half points. Southern Union was only able to muster 10 points in the final frame.
Coastal - South (20-of-58, 34.5%) knocked down six three-pointers and converted 22-of-32 attempts from the free-throw line, proving critical in the closing minutes. The Coyotes also controlled the boards, tallying a whopping 51 rebounsd in the win, including 22 offensive rebounds that created key second-chance opportunities.
Tyra Caves led the way offensively with 13 points, adding six assists, two steals, and two blocks in an all-around performance. Kennedy Gill provided a major spark off the bench, pouring in 12 points on 5-of-9 shooting, including a pair of three-pointers. Brooklyn Phillips added 10 points and three steals, while Shakira Williams chipped in nine points and five free throws. Coastal - South saw 10 of the 12 players to touch the floor on Monday come away with points in a balanced scoring effort.
In the paint, Coastal showcased its toughness, with Shamiya Oliver and Kalaysia Robinson each finished in double figures in rebounds. Oliver finished with 10 rebounds to go along with five points, while Robinson matched her with 10 boards and five points. Laila Young made her presence felt on the glass as well, pulling down nine rebounds and converting five free throws, while Naomi Whack added three points and three rebounds off the bench.
The Yotes' defensive effort was equally impactful, tallying seven steals and seven blocks while forcing tough looks throughout the contest. Though turnovers (19) kept Southern Union within striking distance, Coastal - South's poise at the line in the final moments secured the win.
With the victory, Coastal Alabama - South strengthens its position in conference play and builds momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
Headed to T-Town
The Coyotes have a tough task ahead as Coastal - South travels to Tuscaloosa, Ala. next on the schedule to face off with the conference's current top team in Shelton State (Ala.). Shelton State currently sits undefeated (6-0) in the ACCC this season and ranks No. 6 in the latest NJCAA D-I Women's Basketball Top 25. The 'Yotes will look to put an end to the Bucs' impressive run. Thursday's game is set for 5:30 p.m. CT.
FOLLOW THE YOTES
For coverage of Coastal Alabama South Athletics, follow the Coyotes on social media at /CoastalAlabamaSouth (Facebook), @CoastalAL_south (Twitter), and @coastalal_south (Instagram), or visit the official home of the Coastal Alabama South Athletic Department at https://coastalcoyotessouth.com/index.aspx
