MONTGOMERY, Al. - The LaGrange College Women's Basketball Team (7-3, 1-0 Collegiate Conference of the South) soared to victory Saturday afternoon (Jan. 4), besting the Hawks of Huntingdon College (4-6, 0-1 CCS) by a final score of 86-74 in Catherine Dixon Roland Arena.

Game Summary
Laila Battle got things going with an early three, as consistent scoring from the Panthers allowed them to fend off a very game Huntingdon squad who had their sights locked on an upset. The first quarter saw 13 lead changes as both teams battled blow-for-blow with LaGrange leading by a narrow margin in a 23-22 game after one.

The bout continued in the second quarter, as LaGrange began to roll offensively. The Panthers nearly took control of the game four minutes into the period, leading by two possessions before the Hawks got right back into the fold with a clutch three-point play. Unfazed by the hosts' resolve, however, LC continued to make their shots, eventually extending their lead to as much as 11 before a pair of quick buckets from the Hawks cut the advantage down to seven as the Panthers led 48-41 at the half.

LaGrange opened the third quarter on a dominant 12-5 run, padding their lead to 14 at the 4:58 mark in the frame. Despite the Hawks' efforts to retaliate, the Panthers retained a firm grip on the game as they led 65-56 heading into the final quarter.

LC showed no signs of slowing down in the fourth, putting their foot on the gas as they led by 15 with six minutes remaining in the contest. Huntingdon tried to make a comeback late in the game, bringing the deficit down to eight points with two minutes remaining. The Panthers had other plans, however, finishing strong to hold on and win big 86-74.

Panthers of the Game
Zyhia Johnson led the way with 23 points on the day for the Panthers, in addition to five assists.

Laila Battle also made a solid contribution on the court for LC, with 15 points, five steals and eight rebounds for the Smyrna, Ga native's ledger.

Up Next
The Panthers will be back in action Tuesday (Jan. 7) when they travel to Belhaven University to take on the Blazers in their second CCS bout of the season. Links for live streaming and stats for that game can be found by clicking here.