PHOENIX, Ariz. – The Nicholls State University women's basketball team utilized stout defense and efficient offense to beat Eastern Illinois University 63-55 at the GCU Classic on Friday afternoon.
 
The Colonels offense got off to a strong start in the first half as they shot 53% from the field (16-30) and hit four shots from long range. The defense followed suit and allowed the Panthers to shoot just 42% from the field and force 10 turnovers. The Red & Gray led 39-33 at the intermission.
 
In the third quarter, the Colonels extended their lead to as much as 13 while holding the Panthers scoreless for the final 6:40 of the period to go up 52-39 going into the fourth. The Colonels carried that momentum into the final frame to secure the win.
 
The Colonels finished the contest with a season-best 18 steals and only committed eight fouls.
 
Senior guard Kyla Hamilton hit two of her five made field goals in the fourth quarter as she finished the game with 11 points, five rebounds and a season high 5 steals.
 
Also having a big day on both ends of the floor was the Colonels' leading scorer sophomore forward Lexi Alexander who finished with 17 points, seven rebounds, and six steals.
 
Junior forward Daelyn Craig hit four of her six field goal attempts and a pair of free throws to score 10 points. She also had five rebounds and three assists.
 
UP NEXT
The Red & Gray will play Grand Canyon University on Saturday, Nov. 25 at 2:30 p.m. on ESPN+.