HUNTSVILLE - Kaylee Jefferson made just one shot on Saturday afternoon, but she made it count. The sophomore from Sulphur Springs hit a 3-pointer with 17 seconds remaining to lift the Bearkats to a 69-66 win over Grand Canyon.
After taking the lead late in the first quarter, the Kats (14-14, 9-8 WAC) led for most of the game. In the fourth quarter, GCU (19-8, 12-4 WAC) battled back, tying the game with less than a minute to play. That's when Jefferson found herself open for three and the game-winner.
The victory pushes the Kats to a remarkable 9-8 record in league play after starting with six straight losses.
The Kats led by as much as 15 in the second half, with
Damaya Telemaque again turning in a 20-point performance. The junior led all scorers with 21 points, while dishing out a team-high four assists.
The Kats also got a big performance from
Courtney Cleveland. After being recognized on senior day, Cleveland opening the game strong, scoring six of the team's first eight points on her way to 16 points and a team-high six rebounds.
Sydnee Kemp, who was filling in for the injured
Faith Cook, stepped in a scored nine points.
The Kats will wrap up the regular season on the road on Thursday at Tarleton. With a bye on Saturday they will wait to find out when and who they will play in their first WAC Tournament in Las Vegas.
