NEWBERRY, S.C. – Despite a gritty defensive performance and a strong showing in the paint, the Newberry women's basketball team fell to Anderson (S.C.) 62-50 on Wednesday evening at Eleazer Arena. The Wolves battled throughout the game but were hampered by a difficult third quarter that allowed the Trojans to take control.
Newberry (6-21, 5-16 SAC) showed its defensive tenacity by recording 14 steals and forcing 24 turnovers, disrupting Anderson's offensive rhythm. Jess Tomkins led the charge with a double-double, tallying 13 points, 10 rebounds, and an impressive six steals. Julia Paoletta contributed nine points, while Caylin Moment and Rickell Brown added key baskets to keep the Wolves within striking distance.
The first half was a back-and-forth battle, with Newberry responding to early deficits with aggressive play inside. The Wolves outscored Anderson 19-12 in the second quarter to cut the halftime deficit to just four points at 32-28. However, offensive struggles in the third period proved costly, as Newberry managed just five points while Anderson extended its lead.
Despite a fourth-quarter push that saw the Wolves score 17 points, Anderson's defense held strong in the closing minutes, preventing a late comeback. Newberry found success in the paint, outscoring Anderson 32-26 inside, but a tough shooting night from beyond the arc (2-for-19) made closing the gap difficult.
The Wolves will play their final game of the season this Saturday at 2 p.m. against Lenoir-Rhyne.