Box Score

DANVILLE, Va. — Sophomore Jessica Myers and freshman Brianna Taylor each set career highs in scoring as Averett knocked off USA South Conference foe Methodist University 76-64 on Saturday afternoon at the Grant Center.

After building a 38-30 halftime lead, Averett (3-12, 2-7 USA South) never relinquished it in the second half against Methodist (9-7, 5-5 USA South). The Monarchs got as close as six points several times early in the period and as late as the 9:32 mark, but the Cougars held them off each time. Averett extended its lead to double digits for good on a pair of Taylor free throws with 3:22 to play.

Both Myers and Taylor topped their previous high in scoring by one point. Myers totaled 20 points while Taylor finished with 18 points along with six rebounds. Sophomore Oneka Jones also provided a boost off the bench, netting 12 points and seven rebounds.

Methodist led early in the first half before Averett took the lead midway through the period. Tied at 29-29, the Cougars finished the first half on a 9-1 run over the final three minutes to take the momentum into the locker rooms.

Jackie Lyles led the Monarchs with 24 points and 11 rebounds.

Averett shot a season-high 47.1 percent from the floor and forced 26 turnovers on defense.

The Cougars return to action on Sunday when they play host to N.C. Wesleyan College at 1 p.m. at the Grant Center.