BUCKHANNON, WV – The Concord University women’s basketball team put together an impressive offensive performance to secure a 96-85 road victory over West Virginia Wesleyan on Wednesday evening at the Rockefeller Center.
Concord set the tone early in the first quarter, outscoring the Bobcats 26-17. The Mountain Lions shot 64.7% from the field and connected on all four of its three-point attempts in the opening period. Madison Young led the charge, finishing the game with 23 points on 7-of-13 shooting, including 6-of-11 from beyond the arc.
The second quarter saw Concord extend its lead, scoring 24 points and heading into halftime with a commanding 50-35 lead. Imani Hickman provided a spark off the bench, contributing 21 points on 8-of-11 shooting, including a perfect 3-of-3 from deep.
Wesleyan (16-6, 10-5 MEC) attempted to mount a comeback in the second half, fueled by standout performances from Emma Witt and Sydney Baird. Witt led all scorers with 25 points and pulled down eight rebounds, while Baird added 15 points and five assists.
The Bobcats put together a strong third quarter, outscoring Concord 25-23, thanks to an efficient 52.6% shooting performance. Shelby Genes provided additional scoring with 13 points, hitting three of her five three-point attempts.
Despite Wesleyan’s efforts, Concord maintained its offensive rhythm, consistently finding answers to every Bobcat run. The Mountain Lions shot 54.2% from three-point range and an impressive 86.4% from the free-throw line, ensuring they kept their lead intact.
Concord’s veteran leadership and composure at the free-throw line proved to be the difference. Skylar Davidson orchestrated the offense efficiently, dishing out 12 assists while adding 14 points of her own. Abbie Smith was dominant in the paint, finishing with 16 points and eight rebounds while converting 8-of-9 free throws.
In the final minutes, Young knocked down a critical three-pointer to halt a Bobcat rally, and Davidson iced the game at the line to secure the Mountain Lions’ eighth conference win.
- Statistical Highlights
- Concord Shooting Efficiency: 46.4% FG, 54.2% 3PT, 86.4% FT
- Bench Impact: Concord’s bench outscored Wesleyan’s 29-10, led by Hickman’s 21 points
- Fast Break Battle: Concord capitalized on transition opportunities, outscoring Wesleyan 24-9 in fast-break points
- Rebounding Edge: Both teams grabbed 34 rebounds, but Concord’s second-chance opportunities proved crucial
The Bobcats visit Glenville State University Saturday, Feb. 15 for a 1 p.m. tip with the Pioneers.
