Written by: Danny Talbert

Taylor Smith's 21-point performance helps the Panthers rise above the visiting Wolves. LC 85 WC 55

First half details

The visiting Wolves of Wesleyan showed up to today's game with the full intention of stealing a win over the Panthers. After the first five minutes, LC trailed 11-8. This was in part due to the Wolves hitting their shots, but also due to the intensity they brought to the game. Out of the first media time out, the Panthers began to match their high-paced style of play. Despite playing harder, the LC shots struggled for the remainder of the quarter. At the end of the first, LC trailed 19-17. As a team, the Panthers were shooting 33% from the field and had yet to hit a three. Luckily for the LC faithful in attendance tonight scoring droughts do not last for this Panther offense. In the first three minutes of the second quarter, LC quickly jumped out to a 24-19 lead. The Panther bench was on their feet and cheering when Taylor Smith made a contested layup and then got the and-one call. LC led at halftime 41-28. The Panthers finished the half shooting 37% from the field and 10% from three. Taylor Smith had a team-high 13 points, while shooting 67% from the field. She also grabbed four rebounds.

Second half details

The Panthers began the second half looking like a completely different team then they did at the start of the game. Between taking advantage of the Wolves' mistakes, hitting their shots and making smart decisions. In just five minutes, LC had extended their lead to 56-34. The Panthers cruised the rest of the quarter to finish at the break-up 67-35. Out of the break, LC rotated in four new players. This group of Panthers continued the Panther route. LC would go on to win 85-55. 

Top Panther performance

Taylor Smith scored a team-high 20 points, shooting 77% from the field. She also grabbed five rebounds and had one assist.

Upcoming game 

The Panthers travel to Tennessee to face Maryville this Friday (Feb. 2).