Women's Basketball Ends 2024 with Win

KNOXVILLE, Tenn.- The women's basketball team closed out 2024 with a win on Tuesday. The team played their final game of the 2024 calendar year at the Johnson University New Year's Eve Classic. The team won picked up a 66-56 win against Spartanburg Methodist College. 

TWU set the tone early with strong defensive rebounding and efficient offense. Jacelyn Stone opened the scoring with a made free throw and quickly followed with a three-pointer, assisted by Anna Crowder, to take a 4-0 lead. Stone's layup extended the advantage, and Crowder's rebounding dominance kept Spartanburg Methodist from finding their rhythm. Jaci Powell contributed with a critical three-pointer late in the quarter, helping TWU close the period ahead 23-17.

The second quarter saw Spartanburg Methodist fight back, narrowing TWU's lead. However, TWU's defense held firm, with Powell and Jalaya Lindsey grabbing key defensive rebounds. Stone and Crowder provided timely scoring to keep the Bulldogs in front. TWU entered halftime with a narrow 33-30 lead, thanks to consistent execution on both ends of the floor.

TWU came out of the locker room with renewed intensity. Powell knocked down a crucial three-pointer, and Lindsey added points in transition. Crowder continued her strong performance with both offensive and defensive rebounds, while Stone's jump shots kept TWU's momentum alive. By the end of the third, the Bulldogs led 49-46, showcasing their ability to adapt under pressure.

TWU pulled away in the fourth quarter, outscoring Spartanburg Methodist 17-10. Within that was a run of 13 straight points that helped the Lady Bulldogs take their largest lead of the game, a 62-48 lead that occurred on including a Crowder three-pointer. Stone sealed the win with back-to-back free throws in the final minute, securing the 66-56 victory.

Crowder led with 23 points and 11 rebounds. Stone added 22 points

Tennessee Wesleyan (6-5) will play their first game of 2025 on Tuesday when they host Milligan University in a conference game. The game is set to begin at 5:30 p.m.