Paul Quinn Women Come Up Short at LCU

Game Overview

The game was marked by tight defense and strategic adjustments. Despite trailing after the third quarter, Louisiana Christian used a strong fourth-quarter performance to outlast Paul Quinn. Turnovers played a pivotal role, with Paul Quinn scoring 25 points off turnovers compared to Louisiana Christian's 13. However, Louisiana Christian capitalized on clutch free throws and critical plays in the paint to secure the narrow victory.

First Half Highlights

Paul Quinn started strong with aggressive defensive pressure and fast-break opportunities, leading to 21 fast-break points throughout the game. Guard Canai McPherson shone brightest for the Tigers, finishing with 25 points on 11-of-17 shooting. Her dynamic scoring, including one three-pointer, kept Paul Quinn competitive throughout the game.

Louisiana Christian struggled offensively in the first quarter, shooting 22.2% from the field. They found a rhythm in the second quarter, improving their field goal percentage to 35.7%, led by M'Kiyiah Olivier and DaKayla Howard. By halftime, Louisiana Christian held a narrow 25–22 lead.

Second Half Momentum Shifts

Paul Quinn fired in the third quarter, outscoring Louisiana Christian 18–12. McPherson and Cierra Taylor contributed heavily during this stretch, with Taylor dominating the boards and finishing with 7 rebounds. Paul Quinn's defense forced turnovers and maintained their scoring edge in transition.

However, Louisiana Christian regrouped in the fourth quarter. Their defense tightened, limiting Paul Quinn to 11 points in the final period. The Wildcats succeeded from the free-throw line, converting 77.8% of their attempts in the fourth quarter, which proved decisive. Key plays by Howard and Olivier down the stretch turned the tide in favor of the Wildcats.

Key Player Performances

• Paul Quinn:
• • Canai McPherson: 25 points, 2 rebounds, 2 steals
  • Cierra Taylor: 5 points, 7 rebounds, 4 steals
• Louisiana Christian:
• • M'Kiyiah Olivier: 6 points, 2 rebounds
  • DaKayla Howard: 6 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists

Statistical Highlights

• Shooting Efficiency:
• • Paul Quinn: 36.4% from the field, 20.0% from beyond the arc
  • Louisiana Christian: 31.1% from the field, 25.0% from beyond the arc
• Rebounds:
• • Paul Quinn: 36 (6 offensive)
  • Louisiana Christian: 47 (16 offensive)
• Fast Break Points:
• • Paul Quinn: 21
  • Louisiana Christian: 16

Critical Moments

The Wildcats' ability to dominate the boards (47 rebounds to Paul Quinn's 36) and convert key free throws in the final minutes sealed their victory. Despite Paul Quinn's disruptive defense, Louisiana Christian displayed resilience and capitalized on second-chance opportunities.