LSU Shreveport Overpowers Paul Quinn in Defensive Battle

Shreveport, LA – LSU Shreveport’s tenacious defense and balanced scoring effort led to a commanding 64-40 victory over Paul Quinn College on December 5, 2024, at the Health and Wellness Center. The matchup, a battle of two teams fighting for momentum in their respective seasons, saw the visitors dominate early and sustain their lead throughout.

LSU Shreveport

7-3, 5-1

Paul Quinn

5-4, 4-2

Final

LSU Shreveport 7-3, 5-1

Paul Quinn 5-4, 4-2

Game Leaders

LSU Shreveport

Pts: Selma Markisic - 20

Reb: Helena Galunic - 8

Ast: Tiarra Tillison - 4

Paul Quinn

Pts: Canai McPherson - 11

Reb: Zaire Brown - 15

Ast: Kayla Webster - 4

Team Stats

LSU Shreveport

Paul Quinn

Field Goals

(23-53)

(12-52)

Field Goal %

43.4%

23.1%

Rebounds

Assists

Turnovers

Pts off Turnovers

2nd Chance Pts

Pts in the Paint

Fastbreak Pts

Bench Pts

Full stats

December 5, 2024

First Half Dominance

LSU Shreveport came out strong in the first quarter, scoring 20 points while holding Paul Quinn to just eight. Shreveport's Selma Markisic spearheaded the offense, contributing eight first-half points and finishing the game with 20 points and six rebounds. The second quarter was no better for Paul Quinn, as they managed only five points on a paltry 9.1% shooting. LSU Shreveport's defense forced 16 turnovers in the half, making it difficult for the home team to find their rhythm.

By halftime, the score stood at 33-13 in favor of LSU Shreveport.

Paul Quinn's Third-Quarter Resurgence

The Tigers showed signs of life in the third quarter, outscoring LSU Shreveport 20-11. Guard Kayla Webster led the charge with aggressive drives to the basket, scoring nine points and adding five rebounds and eight steals on the night. Paul Quinn's defensive intensity caused LSU Shreveport to commit seven turnovers in the quarter, giving the Tigers some hope heading into the final period.

Shreveport Closes the Door

However, LSU Shreveport's depth and composure proved too much in the fourth quarter. Shreveport outscored Paul Quinn 20-7, sealing the victory with contributions from their bench, which scored 22 points compared to Paul Quinn's five. Alexis Brown and Erynn Williams combined for 14 points off the bench, providing much-needed support to the starting lineup.

Shreveport's strong inside presence was a key factor, as they dominated points in the paint 32-12 and secured 11 second-chance points. Helena Galunic added six points and eight rebounds, while Racheal Emmanuel chipped in seven and six boards off the bench.

Key Takeaways

LSU Shreveport: Efficient shooting (43.4%) and a strong defensive performance led to 30 forced turnovers and 15 steals. Balanced team contributions complemented Markisic's offensive leadership.
Paul Quinn: The Tigers struggled with shooting, managing only 23.1% from the field and 15% from beyond the arc. Despite the loss, Webster's all-around effort and Zaire Brown's 15 rebounds were bright spots.

Looking Ahead

LSU Shreveport improves to 7-3 overall and 5-1 in conference play, maintaining its position as a top contender. They will look to build on this performance in their next matchup. Meanwhile, Paul Quinn drops to 5-4 overall and 4-2 in conference play. The Tigers aim to regroup and address their offensive inconsistencies as they prepare for their next challenge.

The game showcased the importance of depth, defensive pressure, and execution under pressure, setting the stage for both teams' exciting remainder of the season.