JACKSON, TN – Behind a 22-point effort from senior guard Drameka Griggs, the 10th-ranked Clayton State women's basketball improved to 2-0 on the season, overpowering Union University 66-44 Saturday in the Union University Lady Bulldog Classic in Jackson, TN.
With the win, the Lakers improve to 2-0 on the season after defeating Delta State 68-51 Friday in the event. Clayton State will take next week off before returning to action on Tuesday, November 27th, traveling to face Newberry in a 6 p.m. contest.
Clayton State won Saturday's contest early in the second half, stepping up its defense and holding the Bulldogs to only nine points in over 10 minutes play. Leading 30-23 at halftime, Clayton State outscored Union 18-9 during the run.
Guard Arkia Armstrong opened the half, draining a 3-pointer to give the team its first double-digit lead 33-23, while Griggs capped the run hitting a jump shot with 9:36 remaining to give the team a 16-point lead, 46-32.
Clayton State put the game out of reach over the next six minutes of the half with another impressive run, this time outscoring the Bulldogs 15-5. Griggs accounted for nine of the points during the stretch to go along with a three pointer by guard Bena Hanyard and three points from center Shacmara Jackson. The Lakers took a commanding 63-37 lead with 3:16 remaining on a free throw by Jackson.
A free throw by forward Kayla Mobley with 2:17 remaining gave the Lakers their largest lead of 27 points, 66-39, before the Bulldogs scored five unanswered points to close the game. Clayton State's defense held the Bulldogs to 32 percent shooting on the evening, as Union converted on only 16-of-50 shots from the field.
To along with her 22 points, Griggs also had six rebounds, six assists and three steals. Jackson finished with a "double-double" with 12 boards and 10 rebounds, while Armstrong finished with 11 points.
For Union, Amy Philamlee and Amber Rechis each scored 12 points to lead the Bulldogs.
Clayton State's home schedule will begin on Saturday, December 1st, hosting the Loch Shop Classic. The Classic will feature Clayton State, league opponent North Georgia, regional opponent Lenoir-Rhyne and Chowan. Clayton State will play Chowan and Lenoir-Rhyne in the two-day event.
