St. Ptersburg, FL- After two exhilrating home wins, the Saints Women's Basketball team traveled south for their second matchup of the season against St. Petersburg College.  In their first matchup, the Saints defeated the Titans 78-61.  Today, the Titans were determined to even the series at 1-1. 

How It Happened  

After winning the jump ball, the Titans began a quick pace of play.  They stunned the Saints with an early triple to establish an early lead.  The Titans also forced early turnovers while attempting to control the paint on the offensive side of the ball.  Shakiria Chaney scored 4 points in the first quarter to help keep the score close.  By the end of the first quarter, the Titans led 25-12.

Casey Lewis came off the bench in the second quarter and provided a spark for the Saints offense by hitting three triples (four triples on the day).  She scored 9 of the teams 17 points in the period.  Both teams turned up their defensive intensity by putting pressure more on the other teams offense.  Xaniya Jackson led the Titans with 8 points in the second period helping her team to an 18 point quarter.    

The halftime adjustments made by the Saints made a difference starting the second half.  They outscored the Titans 19-17 in the third quarter.  

Four triples in the fourth period helped the Saints outscored the Titans 20-19.  However, the Titans were able to withstand the second half push by their visiting opponent, stubbornly holding the lead to win the game 79-70.  

Comments From Coach Jackson

"Today we were just a step slow but to St. Petersburg's credit they were the team that wanted it more. We have no time to hang our heads because we must prepare for our next conference opponent which is Miami Dade who we play on Tuesday and Wednesday."

Up Next

The Saints will face Miami Dade State College on Tuesday January 30 at 6PM EST to finish their game that was suspended due to floor conditions.  On Wednesday, January 31st they will play second matchup of the season.  Both games will take place at home in the Santa Fe gymnasium.  Tip off will be at 5PM EST.