Franklin Springs, GA – The Emmanuel Women's Basketball team hosted Barry University in non-conference play. The game started off as a defensive battle, with the Lions holding the Buccaneers to 15 points in the first quarter, but a strong second quarter helped Barry take control of the contest. The Buccaneers came away with a 71-56 victory. With the loss, the Lions fall to 4-8 on the season.

The first quarter was evenly matched, with both teams creating plays. The Lions were 4-10 from the field (40%). Down 13-7 with 17 seconds to play in the quarter, a key three-pointer by Abby Crawford would cut Barry's lead to 13-10. The Lions would trail the Buccaneers by 5,15-10 after the first.

In the second quarter, Barry quickly expanded their lead to 12 points. The Lions responded well on a jumper by Ade'Jah James with 2:56 to play in the quarter to bring the Buccaneer's lead back down to 9, but Barry would close the quarter out strong to take a 34-23 lead into the break.

In the third, the Lions held Barry to 23% shooting, outscoring the Buccaneers 14-13. A made three by Naomi Roberts with 1:52 to play in the quarter would cut Barry's lead to 10, and a made free throw by Emma Leonard would make it 45-37, but the Buccaneers would close out the quarter with a made jumper to give Barry a 47-37 lead heading into the final quarter of play.

In the fourth quarter, Barry would push the pace of the game extending their lead to 17 points. The Lions were 5-13 from the field, connecting on 8-8 from the charity stripe. In the end, the Buccaneers would take home a 15-point victory, 71-56. 

Naomi Roberts would lead the Lions in scoring with 17 points on the evening while Maddie Futch added a double-double, with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Addie Penick ended the night with 7 assists.

Next up, the Lions will travel to Augusta to take on Augusta University on January 1st at 4PM. For more information on Emmanuel University athletics, visit goeulions.com.