FLORENCE, Ala. — A double-double, including a career-high 24 points by freshman Sakyia White paved the way for the University of North Alabama women's basketball team Saturday evening in a 67-56 home win over Kennesaw State. The victory gives UNA a 2-8 record on the season, but starts the team with a 1-0 mark in ASUN Conference play.
White, who also reached 16 rebounds for the third time this season, was 10-of-12 from the floor. The post player from Tuscaloosa also added four steals, three assists and a pair of blocked shots on the night.
After a first half that featured eight ties and seven lead changes, UNA took a 27-25 lead into the break. Holding a two-point lead midway through the third quarter, the Lions used an 11-0 run to grab a double-digit lead.
Olivia Noah connected on a pair of three-point baskets during the run, including a trey with 1:43 remaining to give North Alabama a 46-33 lead. The Lions took a 50-40 advantage into the final period and held off KSU down the stretch.
The Owls got within four points down with 5:56 remaining, but could get no closer. After a KSU basket made the score 54-50, another 11-0 run by the Lions put the game out of reach. White scored five points during the stretch and a three-pointer by Alexis Callins made the score 65-50 at the 2:16 mark.
For the game, both teams had 22 turnovers. UNA, however, converted the miscues into 20 points while KSU had only 12 points off turnovers. The Lions shot 47.1 percent from the floor and held the visitors to a 23-of-61 (37 percent) showing, with only one three-pointer.
Jaila Roberts added 14 points and dished out six assists for the Lions. Callins rounded out the top scorers for UNA with 11 points. Jah'Che Whitfield led Kennesaw State (4-1) with 13 points.
The same two teams will face off on Sunday. Tip-off is set for 2 p.m. at Flowers Hall.
