Bowie State University women’s basketball defeated Shepherd 69-63 Friday at A.C. Jordan Arena in Bowie, Maryland, as Mayah Garner led the Bulldogs with 17 points and 17 rebounds. Bowie State improved to 1-0, while Shepherd fell to 0-1.
The Bulldogs held a 61-41 rebounding advantage, including 22 offensive rebounds. Bowie State also scored 34 points in the paint and used an 11-0 first-quarter run to overcome a four-point deficit and take a seven-point lead.
Bowie State Creates Separation With Rebounding
Shepherd took an early 6-2 lead after Cassidy Rhodes made two 3-pointers. Bowie State responded with an 11-0 run, during which Chaniya Taylor made three baskets and a free throw, to move in front 13-6.
Shepherd rallied to tie the game 18-18 after the first quarter, but Bowie State led 34-30 at halftime. The Bulldogs extended their advantage to 51-40 after three quarters before Shepherd mounted a late comeback.
Shepherd pulled within four points in the final period, but Bowie State answered with baskets from Gabriella Clary, Mayah Garner and Sydney Anthony. Clary then recorded a steal, and Kristin Sterling made two free throws to help secure the 69-63 victory.
Mayah Garner Leads Bowie State Women’s Basketball
Garner collected nine offensive rebounds as part of her 17-rebound performance. Sterling added 15 rebounds, three blocks and nine points for Bowie State.
Ca’Asia Brown finished with 10 points and seven rebounds while converting all six of her free-throw attempts. Malaka Cobb recorded nine points, two steals and two assists, while Gabriella Clary was identified as a game leader.
Next Game for Bowie State
Bowie State will host East Stroudsburg Saturday at 2 p.m. to conclude the Tip-Off Classic.
MSB Analysis
Bowie State’s rebounding advantage shaped the game, particularly through Garner’s nine offensive boards. The 61-41 edge on the glass helped Bowie State withstand Shepherd’s fourth-quarter comeback and open the season with a win.
The Bulldogs will remain at home against East Stroudsburg in their next game.
Source: Original report
