DAYTON, Tenn. – Bryan College put together a complete team performance Saturday afternoon, overwhelming Bluefield College 89-58 at Summers Gymnasium in a game that saw the home team control play from start to finish.
The Lions established their dominance early, jumping out to a 23-12 lead after the first quarter and never looking back. Bryan's balanced offensive attack and suffocating defense proved too much for the visiting Rams, who struggled with ball security throughout the contest.
Bryan's offensive efficiency was evident in their 42.7% shooting from the field and impressive ball movement that produced 28 assists on 35 made baskets. The Lions placed five players in double figures, showcasing the depth that made them difficult to defend.
Molly Brown led all scorers with 13 points on an efficient 5-of-8 shooting, adding two assists in just 12 minutes of action.
Ruby Cox contributed 12 points and grabbed six rebounds, while
Leah Stinnett added eight points and dished out three assists.
Alyssa Petty was a force in limited minutes, scoring seven points while recording three steals. The Lions' bench provided crucial contributions throughout, with multiple players stepping up when called upon.
Bryan's defensive pressure was relentless, forcing Bluefield into 31 turnovers while committing just 15 themselves. The Lions converted those opportunities into 32 points off turnovers, compared to just eight for Bluefield.
The home team's defensive dominance extended to the paint, where they outscored the Rams 46-24. Bryan also controlled the glass, pulling down 41 rebounds to Bluefield's 33, including 18 offensive boards that led to 22 second-chance points.
Bryan's ability to disrupt passing lanes was particularly impressive, as they recorded 21 steals as a team.
Sophie McIntruff contributed four assists and three steals, while multiple players chipped in with timely defensive plays.
The Lions never allowed Bluefield to gain momentum, winning every quarter. After the 23-12 first quarter, Bryan extended their lead to 42-23 by halftime. The third quarter saw both teams trade baskets, with Bryan maintaining their cushion at 67-47 heading into the final period. In the fourth quarter, Bryan's reserves continued the dominant performance, outscoring Bluefield 22-11 to cap the 31-point victory.
For Bluefield, the loss was marked by offensive inefficiency and turnover troubles. The Rams shot just 35.8% from the field and 28.6% from three-point range. Ashanti Northcross led Bluefield with 11 points and four assists, while Abby O'Quinn added 10 points off the bench.
The Rams' 31 turnovers proved catastrophic, as they were unable to establish any offensive rhythm against Bryan's aggressive defense. Bluefield managed just 10 assists on 19 made field goals, highlighting their struggles to generate quality scoring opportunities.
Bryan's comprehensive victory demonstrated the type of team basketball that can overwhelm opponents when executed properly. With contributions coming from across the roster and a defensive effort that never wavered, the Lions put together a performance that will serve as a blueprint moving forward.
The Lady Lions will host Tennessee Wesleyan on Wednesday for a cross-river rivalry. Tip off is slated for 5:30 pm.
