Aiken, S.C. – The Lakers traveled to Aiken, South Carolina on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. to take on the USC Aiken Pacers, coming out strong and battling hard all game before ultimately falling short, 65–58.
From the opening tip, the Lakers set the tone with physical defense and active hands, forcing turnovers and battling for position on the glass. Tianna Dismuke established herself early in the paint, finishing strong around the rim and working tirelessly on the boards. Etaria Gibbons set the tone defensively in the paint, using her presence and timing to disrupt shots and control the interior. The Lakers continued to generate extra possessions through hustle and effort.
Halftime Score: Lakers 26, Pacers 36
Coming out of the break, the Lakers responded with energy and urgency, tightening up defensively and pushing the tempo. Kyla Greene and Dazjanae Greene led the charge offensively, hitting key jumpers and fastbreak shots to keep the pressure on USC Aiken. Armani Shaw delivered a key three during the fourth-quarter push. Jasmyn Burts and Nya Young applied defensive pressure, jumping passing lanes and coming away with multiple steals to fuel transition opportunities. Dismuke continued to battle inside, converting in the paint and extending possessions as the Lakers closed the gap late. Despite the push, the Pacers were able to answer down the stretch, and the Lakers came up short in the final minutes.
Final Score: Lakers 58, Pacers 65
Quick Hits:
The Lakers scored 17 second chance points.
The Lakers scored 19 points off turnovers.
Kyla and Dazjanae Greene led the team in scoring.
What's Next: The Lakers (6–10) will host the Flagler Saints Tuesday, January 20th, with tipoff scheduled for 5:30 p.m.
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