FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.- The Nova Southeastern Women's basketball team dropped their season opener against Auburn Montgomery in the SSC/GSC Crossover Classic. Madison Frederick led the way for NSU, pouring in 20 points and securing five rebounds.
SCORE: Nova Southeastern 62, Auburn Montgomery 69
RECORDS: Nova Southeastern 0-1, Auburn Montgomery 1-0
LOCATION: Rick Case Arena I Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
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First Half – Jess Moors got the action started for NSU, knocking down two free throws after a great drive to the basket. AUM would then score five quick points before Frederick knocked down a three-pointer to tie the match at five a piece. Towards the end of the first quarter, Sarei McGill made a driving layup off a steal at the other end. The Warhawks would score a jumper in the closing seconds of the quarter, tying the game at 11 as they headed to the second. Kailyn Terrell and Moors scored back-to-back baskets to start the quarter for NSU. Midway through the quarter, the Warhawks went on a 9-0 run to take a 28-19 lead. Layups from Aubrey Stupp and Nicole Scales kept the Sharks in the match, bringing the score to 33-24 heading into the second half.
Second Half – AUM took a commanding 42-27 lead three minutes into the second half, but the Sharks weren't going down that easy. Baskets from Scales, Frederick, and Moors brought the Sharks within six points with three minutes left to play in the quarter. NSU kept their foot on the gas pedal, scoring the last six points of the quarter and cutting the deficit to two as they headed into the final frame. Both teams were battling in the beginning of the quarter with AUM claiming a 59-54 lead with four minutes left in the game. The Hawks continued to stay aggressive offensively and maintained the lead throughout the rest of the match, securing the 69-62 victory over Nova Southeastern.
Head Coach Freeland-Curry - AUM played a great game and executed their game plan well. We have a lot of new faces and it was evident quickly we weren't ready for their half-court zone. With their coaching and this being their first game, we didn't have a solid scout and it showed. Every game regardless of what establishes an aggressive inside game, finishes layups with pressure, and knock down free throws. We have to regroup quickly with a big region game tomorrow.
Nova Southeastern takes on the Falcons of Montevallo in the second half of a back-to-back on Saturday, Nov. 11. Tip-off is set for 12 p.m. EST.
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