Spartanburg, SC – The Emmanuel Women's Basketball team traveled to Spartanburg, SC to take on Converse University in conference action. After a slow start offensively for both teams, the Lions outscored the Valkyries in each of the final three quarters to earn a 68-61 win. With the win, the Lions improve to 2-4 on the season, 1-1 in conference action.
 
The first quarter was a defensive battle, with neither team getting things going offensively. The Lions shot 1-16 from the field and were 3-6 from the free throw line. After the first, Emmanuel trailed Converse 8-5. 
 
In the second quarter, the Lions offense started clicking, connecting on 7-12 shots from the field (58.3%). The Valkyries led by as much as five points, 19-14, with 3:14 to play in the quarter, but the Lions would respond well to trail 22-20 at the half. 
 
After the break, the Lions quickly tied things up at 22-22 on a jumper by Ade'Jah James. The two teams traded points and the lead throughout the quarter until a layup by James would give the Lions the lead, 31-29. The Lions shot 44% from the field in the quarter and made 5-6 from the charity stripe. After three, the Valkyries led by just one point, 40-39. 
 
In the final quarter of play, the Lions continued to play well offensively. Abby Crawford scored six points in a row to start the quarter, giving the Lions a 47-42 lead. With 5:22 to play, a jumper by Naomi Roberts pushed the Lions lead 10, but the Valkyries responded well, to bring the game within five points with 13 seconds to play. Addie Penick closed the game out strong for the Lions with two made free throws to earn the 68-61 victory.
 
Abby Crawford led the way for the Lions with 20 points and 8 rebounds while Maddie Futch contributed a double-double, 14 points and 14 rebounds.
 
The Lions will be back in action on Wednesday, December 4^th at 5PM as they host Young Harris in conference play. For more information on Emmanuel University athletics, visit goeulions.com.