January 17, 2008

Danville, VA- The Salem College Basketball Team traveled north to Virginia to play USA South Conference member Averett University Thursday night. During the first half, Averett grabbed a six point lead with less than two minutes to go. Jazmine Gilbert (FY, Fayetteville, NC) and Michala Michaux (So, Morganton, NC) hit a 3-pointer each and Shakila Springs (So, Winston-Salem, NC) hit a jumper to take Salem into the locker room with a 22-21 lead at halftime. Salem led with 14:45 left in the game when Stephanie Wilson (So, Morganton, NC) hit a layup and made the score 32-30. Averett then went on a 16-6 run to pull ahead. With less than two minutes to go, Salem pulled within 4 points as Kelsey Rector (FY, State Road, NC) hit a jumper. Two Salem turnovers and 6-6 free throw shooting by the Cougars sealed the victory for Averett in the final 1:54. The final score was Averett 64 Salem 56.

The Spirits (6-11) were led in scoring by Michala Michaux with 14 points along with her 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals. Casey Jones (So, Winston-Salem) grabbed a team high 13 rebounds, scored 12 points, stole the ball 3 times and dished out 3 assists. Shakila Springs had 12 rebounds, 12 points and 2 blocked shots.

Averett University (3-7) were led Taylor Poirier (21 pts) and Sabrina Allen (20 pts, 14 reb, 6 st).

Salem College will return to action on Wednesday, January 23, as they host Guilford College. Game time will be 7 pm with halftime contests and concessions.