AU women’s basketball team gains split in season-opening weekend

By Shelbie Summerlin | Sports writer 

The Augusta University women’s basketball team is 1-1 after this past weekend’s PBC/Conference Carolinas Crossover tournament at Christenberry Fieldhouse. 

The Jaguars routed the Southern Wesleyan Warriors 75-50 on Friday night, Nov. 12. AU was ahead 26-9 after the first period and never gave up the lead. 

Kennedi Manning led Augusta with 16 points and 7 rebounds. Zairya West and Autumn Phillips each had 13 points. Kiera Howard led with six assists. 

The Barton Bulldogs defeated the Jaguars 83-61 in Saturday’s game (Nov. 13).

Barton did not let up as they came out with a strong lead of 49-25 after the first half. AU fought hard in the second half though, outscoring the Bulldogs 17-16 in the third period and 19-18 in the fourth period, but just couldn’t overcome Barton in the end. 

Manning led again with 12 points; Autumn Phillips right behind her with 11 points. 

“Barton came out and dictated to us on our home court,” AU Coach Millette Green said. “I’m sure they outrebounded us. Even on the offensive end, we were not aggressive. We we’re reactive instead of proactive.” 

To prepare for their next game, Green wants the Jaguars to focus on the tough plays. 

“Rebounding the basketball, we emphasize that every day,” said Green. “Then the 50-50 balls; that’s a want to, that’s a desire. That’s the difference in the game. Offensively, we gotta work to get open, and work to get open against pressure.” 

AU will play Claflin University on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. at Christenberry Fieldhouse.  

Contact Shelbie Summerlin at ssumerlin@augusta.edu.

Kennedi Manning goes up for two points for the Jaguars. Manning had 16 points in the win over Southern Wesleyan. (photos by Shelbie Summerlin)