Box Score

RALEIGH, N.C. — Averett outscored William Peace University in the second half, but the Cougars couldn't overcome their first-half deficit in a 70-64 road loss to the Pacers on Friday night.

Averett (6-18, 5-13 USA South) led 10-7 early following senior Shannon Smith's layup. William Peace (5-19, 5-13 USA South) hit a 3-pointer at the other end to tie the game, then took the lead on its next possession. The Pacers gradually built as much as a 13-point lead before Averett cut it to 38-27 by halftime.

William Peace started the second half strong, pushing its lead to 18 in the opening minutes. From there, however, Averett fought its way back into the game. Freshman Da'Shanae Hardy's jumper with 8:47 to play cut the Pacers' lead down to 56-50. The Cougars trimmed their deficit even further as Smith drained a 3-pointer to pull Averett within 58-55 with 4:18 to play.

The Pacers responded with four consecutive points to extend their lead back to seven, which proved to be too much for Averett to overcome in the final minutes.

The loss eliminated Averett chances to make next week's USA South Conference Tournament as the Cougars will not finish in the top five of the league's North Division.

Sophomore Jessica Myers led Averett with 14 points, seven rebounds, five assists and four steals. Smith and sophomore Nicole Garcia added 12 points each, while freshman Alexis Sollars finished with eight points and eight rebounds.

Zhana Gooden led four Pacers in double-digit scoring with 17 points.

Averett finishes its season at Meredith College on Sunday at 2 p.m.