COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Tuskegee women's basketball team battled throughout but came up short in a 60-49 road loss to Benedict on Saturday afternoon inside HRC Arena.

Tuskegee stayed within striking distance early, trading baskets with the Tigers through the opening quarter. Tenea Robinson provided an early spark, attacking the rim and finishing through contact to help Tuskegee keep pace. Benedict, however, used strong interior play to build a slim advantage heading into the second period.

The home team began to create separation in the second quarter, capitalizing on second-chance opportunities and points in the paint to take a double-digit lead at halftime. Tuskegee struggled to find a consistent shooting rhythm, finishing the half shooting under 20 percent from the field.

Coming out of the break, Tuskegee showed renewed energy. Robinson continued to lead the offense, while Breanna Glaze and Aaliyah Duranham helped spark a third-quarter push as the Golden Tigers cut into the deficit with improved ball movement and defensive pressure. Tuskegee outscored Benedict 17-11 in the third quarter to pull within single digits.

Despite the surge, Benedict answered in the final period with timely free throws and key defensive stops to maintain control down the stretch. Tuskegee was unable to complete the comeback, as the hosts closed the game at the line.

Robinson led all Tuskegee scorers with 14 points, adding six rebounds and two blocks. Glaze and Dunham combined for 16 points, while Arianna Durrell added nine points and four rebounds. Tuskegee finished with 37 total rebounds and got 15 steals, but shot just 27.1 percent from the field.

Benedict was paced by Gwendasia Page, who scored 13 points, while Aaliyah Lawrence added 10 points. The Tigers held a 53-37 rebounding advantage and scored 38 points in the paint, proving to be the difference.

Up Next
Tuskegee returns to action next week as the Golden Tigers continue conference play on the road on Wednesday, Feb. 11 at Spring Hill at 5:30 p.m.

How to Follow the Golden Tigers
For complete information on Tuskegee Golden Tigers Women's Basketball, visit GoldenTigerSports.com and follow the team's social media channels on Twitter, Instagram and  Facebook.