CHARLOTTE - Johnson C. Smith University women's basketball team battled throughout four quarters but fell to Albany State (GA), 75–63, on Monday afternoon at Brayboy Gymnasium.
Albany State set the tone early, jumping out to a 30–13 lead after the first quarter. JCSU responded in the second period, tightening up defensively and finding more rhythm on offense, but the Golden Bulls still trailed 48–29 at halftime.
Coming out of the break, Johnson C. Smith showed renewed energy. The Golden Rams outscored Albany State 15–11 in the third quarter, sparked by improved shooting and strong efforts on the glass. JCSU continued to push in the fourth, winning the final period 19–16.
Senior guard
Tameia Shaw led JCSU with 17 points, adding four steals and three assists in 34 minutes of action. La'Niya Simes posted a solid all-around performance with 10 points, a team-high 10 rebounds, five assists, and four steals to record a double-double. Off the bench,
Sabrina Lewis provided a big spark, knocking down four three-pointers on her way to 14 points.
As a team, the Golden Rams shot 38.7 percent from the field and connected on five three-pointers. JCSU held advantages in points in the paint (34) and bench points (26), while forcing Albany State into 15 turnovers.
Albany State was led by Sariah Johnson, who scored 19 points and dished out seven assists, while Na'Haviya Paxton added 17 points. The Lady Rams shot over 52 percent from the floor and capitalized on 26 points off turnovers to maintain control throughout the contest.
Johnson C. Smith moves to 3–4 overall, while Albany State improves to 3–3 overall.