LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Spalding University women's basketball team delivered a strong performance at Derek Smith Gymnasium, cruising to an 80–57 victory over Mississippi University for Women.
TURNING POINT
From the outset, the Golden Eagles set the tone with a balanced offensive attack and stifling defense. Spalding jumped out early, scoring 23 points in the first quarter to build momentum and control the pace of the game. They maintained that advantage through all four quarters, leading 39–24 at halftime and steadily extending the lead in the second half.
Senior guard
Nicole Hollowell was the standout of the day, pacing the Golden Eagles with a game-high 29 points while shooting efficiently from both inside and beyond the arc. Hollowell's shooting and playmaking kept constant pressure on MUW's defense throughout the contest. The senior set the program record with eight made threes.
Supporting Hollowell was
Brooke McNeal, who chipped in 15 points while contributing on the boards, and
Zaneiya Batiste, who added 14 points and dominated the glass with a team-high 15 rebounds. Together, the trio provided the scoring punch and interior presence that helped Spalding keep MUW at bay.
Spalding's pressure defense also forced turnovers and limited second-chance opportunities for the Owls. Meanwhile, MUW was led offensively by Conley Langford, who scored 22 points and was one of the few consistent scoring threats for the visiting team.
By the final horn, the Golden Eagles had earned a decisive 23-point win, improving their conference standing and showcasing one of their most complete efforts of the season.
NEXT FOR SPALDING
SU will travel to SLIAC opponent Webster on Thursday, February 5th. The Golden Eagles will face Webster. Tip-off is set for 6:30 pm.