Women's Basketball | 2/16/2009 7:21:51 PM

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - Methodist trailed through much of the game, but turned it on late to win 70-65 over the N.C. Wesleyan Battling Bishops.

The Monarchs (15-8, 10-6) were ahead 6-3 through the first five minutes, but the Bishops (5-18, 3-13) went on a 17-2 run to take control of the game.  Methodist closed the lead to five on a fast break layup from senior Dezzire Gilliard but N.C. Wesleyan took a 34-25 lead into the locker room at halftime.

The Bishops scored first in the second half, but Methodist chipped away at the lead until sophomore Dawn Sanderson scored a layup with 14:27 remaining to tie the game at 44.  N.C. Wesleyan responded with a basket at the other end and maintained their lead until junior Michaela Myers hit a jumper in the paint to take the 58-57 lead with 7:55 to go in the game.  N.C. Wesleyan took the 65-64 lead with 1:07 on the clock, but the Monarchs finished 6-for-6 from the free throw line in the final minute to take the 70-65 win.

Gilliard led the Monarchs with 24 points and nine rebounds.  Sanderson scored 17 points with eight rebounds while senior Zan Messer addednine rebounds.

Methodist will finish the regular season on the road this weekend at Christopher Newport Friday and Shenandoah on Saturday. 

Prior to the game, Methodist recognized their three seniors, Dezzire Gilliard, Zan Messer, and Amanda Underwood, for their hard work and dedication to the program.

Box Score