Lady Koalas Suffer Second Loss of Season Falling to Pikeville

COLUMBIA, SC - The Columbia College Lady Koalas experienced a challenging defeat in their AAC women's basketball clash against the Pikeville Lady Bears falling 81-63 on Saturday afternoon at home. The defeat was the Koalas' first at home this season.

Despite valiant efforts and high performances from key players, the Koalas got out to a quick 7-2 start but could not overcome the rally and early lead built by Pikeville.

By halftime, the Koalas trailed 41-29, reflecting Pikeville's strong offensive start. Columbia's guards Keyshuna Fair and Tysonia Lowe, each put up impressive numbers, scoring 20 points apiece. Fair additionally contributed with 4 rebounds, five threes and 2 steals, while Lowe shot 7 of 11 and added 6 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals to her tally for the afternoon.

Pikeville shot an impressive 49% from the floor and o ver 43% from three making 13 treys while the Koalas only shot 34 percent overall with Fair making the only threes of the game knocking down five. CC also struggled from the free throw line making just 56% of their free shots. Junior guard Makayla Street also had a strong game picking up a team-high 11 rebounds with 8 points, 4 steals, 2 assists and 2 blocks. Sophomore forward Kamya Hatten also added 9 points and 4 rebounds.

This game marked the 2nd all-time meeting between the Koalas and the Lady Bears. Despite the setback, Columbia College's record stands strong at 13-2 overall and 6-2 in the AAC while UPike improves to 8-5 and 7-2 in conference.

Looking ahead, the Koalas will next face off against Montreat at UNC-Asheville on Tuesday at 5:30 pm. The team aims to bounce back and add another victory to their impressive season record.