GREENSBORO, N.C. — The Averett University women's basketball team defeated Greensboro College 66-64 in its conference opener on the road at Hanes Gymnasium.
 
After trailing by double digits in the first quarter, the Cougars (8-4, 1-0 USA South) came back to close the gap to 33-25 by halftime. Greensboro (4-7, 0-1 USA South) led by as much as 11 with a little more than three minutes to go in the third quarter, but sophomore guard Alixis Roccia nailed a 3-pointer to spark 10-3 run for the Cougars. Averett was only behind 50-49 at the end of the third period.
 
The teams traded baskets in the fourth quarter, and with 1:25 to go in regulation, Averett sophomore Amani Ajayi, who made her first career start, hit a jumper in the paint to put the Cougars ahead 64-62. Although Greensboro connected on two free throws to knot the game, junior guard Samm Chandler knocked down two for Averett that eventually led to the win. Greensboro had an opportunity to win the game, but Kylee Barry couldn't connect on her shot from behind the arc.
 
Junior guard Frida Lundquist led the Cougars with 12 points as Ajayi and freshman guard Brooke Carthon added 10 points. Carthon also snagged eight rebounds.
 
The Cougars return to action on Wednesday, Jan. 11 to face Meredith College at the Grant Center at 7:30 p.m.