Box Score (PDF)

RICHMOND, Ky.  – Senior guard Mariah Massengill tied a career high with 16 points—nine of which came in the fourth quarter—but Jacksonville State University was able to escape McBrayer Arena with a 54-49 win over the EKU women's basketball team Wednesday.

The Gamecocks took a 46-44 lead late in the fourth, before sophomore Abby Wright found Massengill for a three-pointer from the top of the key which put EKU back out in front.
 
JSU (9-11, 2-6 OVC) answered, however, using an offensive rebound to regain a one-point advantage with 2:31 left to play. JSU's Lacey Buchanon added a free throw to extend the Gamecock lead to two.
 
Trailing 49-47 with time winding down, senior guard Shavontae Naylor picked the pocket of a Gamecock and took it the length of the floor for the score with 90 seconds on the clock.
 
However, it was Buchanon's layup with 1:16 remaining that put JSU in front for good as the Colonels failed to convert on their final three possessions. The Gamecocks connected on three late foul shots, clinching the victory.
 
Massengill's 16 points marked the second time in the last three contests the senior has had career numbers. Her 16 points in EKU's win over Tennessee State set a new career best, eclipsing the 15 point performance at Kent State earlier this season which was a then career high.
 
The teams combined for a total 11 points in the opening quarter, marking a season low for both teams. EKU shot 32 percent (18-of-56) from the floor, while JSU finished 35 percent (20-of-56) for the contest.
 
Naylor also finished in double digits, netting 12 points for the Colonels.  
 
EKU travels to Tennessee Tech University on Saturday to take on the Golden Eagles. Saturday's tip is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.