BUENA VISTA, Va. Methodist women's basketball traveled to Southern Virginia University, the defending USA South champions, Wednesday evening for a conference matchup inside Knight Arena. The Monarchs were unable to overcome a fast start by the Knights, falling 85–56.
JUST THE FACTS
Final score: Southern Virginia def. Methodist, 85–56
Records: Methodist 4–9 (3–3 USA South), Southern Virginia 8–4 (6–0 USA South)
Location: Knight Arena; Buena Vista, Virginia
HOW IT HAPPENED
- Southern Virginia jumped out early, opening the game on a 32–13 run in the first quarter. Methodist found points from Korin Gladden, Taylor Watford, and Nyleiah White, but the home team capitalized on turnovers and efficient shooting to build a sizable advantage.
- The Monarchs settled in offensively during the second quarter, scoring 16 points in the period. Gladden and Watford combined for multiple baskets in the paint, while Methodist also benefited from trips to the free-throw line. Southern Virginia, however, continued to push the tempo and went into halftime leading 55–29.
- Out of the break, Methodist showed improved energy on both ends of the floor. Watford opened the half with a three-point play, and baskets from Elise Robbins and Giavonna Dunlap followed during a brief stretch in the third quarter. Despite the response, Southern Virginia answered with timely scoring to maintain control heading into the final period.
- Methodist continued to compete in the fourth quarter, with White providing a spark offensively and Gladden and Jehari Jacobs adding points inside. The Monarchs matched the Knights for stretches late, but the early deficit proved too much to overcome.
INSIDE THE BOXSCORE
- Gladden led Methodist with 12 points, eight rebounds, four steals, three assists, and three blocks.
- White added 13 points off the bench, while Watford finished with nine points and two assists.
- Jacobs contributed a career-high eight points and four rebounds.
UP NEXT
Methodist continues USA South play on Saturday, January 10, when the Monarchs return home to host Salem College. Tipoff is set for 2 PM.
