The Panthers fought their way back from a 21-point 3rd quarter deficit to snatch a victory from Asbury 78-70 on Saturday at home in Mariotti Gym.
LC had the lead at the top of the second period but fell behind and didn't regain it until only 3½ minutes remained in the contest.
"I'm so proud of how our team continues to fight back," said Head Coach Jasen Jonus. "We came out flat the first half and had too many turnovers. Once we turned it up on the defensive end, it finally helped us fight back into the game.
"I'm glad we pulled it out and got the win at home in front of a good crowd."
A vocal crowd in Mariotti seemed to help keep the Panthers in the game.
They were led by Zyhia Johnson who had 21 points and 5 rebounds. She was followed by Laila Battle with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Gracie Brunel contributed 11 points to the effort.
LaGrange led 17-14 after the first period, but an eight-point run by Asbury in the second helped the Eagles pull away.
The score stood at 33-54 at the start of the third, and it wasn't until late in the period that the Panthers made their move, outscoring Asbury 14-5 in the final 3½ minutes.
LC started the fourth down by nine but tied things at 67-all with just over three minutes remaining. The team continued to edge ahead with defensive play aided by solid free-throw shooting.
The Panthers hit 40.6% of their shots from the floor, compared to 32.9% for Asbury. They also led on the boards with 46 rebounds, compared to the Eagles' 30.
The team next faces Point University on Wednesday at 5:30 at home.
