GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Junior guard
Makenna Bryant had the biggest moment of her career on Saturday in a 56-55 win over Tiffin to improve the women's basketball team to 2-2 overall. The Panthers trailed by one when
Lillee Gustafson had a layup blocked and Bryant grabbed the offensive rebound and was fouled for two free throws. She was just 3-of-11 at the free throw line this season before these attempts but after a timeout by Tiffin, she calmly knocked down both to give the Panthers a one-point lead. Tiffin had one last look at a three-pointer by Kirsten Williams but it was off the mark and Gustafson secured the rebound for the thrilling win.
Tiffin led 55-45 with 3:39 to play but the Panthers rallied with the game's last 11 points. Jada Tate gave the Dragons their 10-point lead but it was answered by a three-pointer by Bryant.
Alexa Kolnitys followed with a three-pointer of her own to make it 55-51 with 2:53 left. Bryant split at the free throw line with 1:54 remaining to make it a one-possession game.
Jaci Walker hit on a layup with 1:14 on the clock to set up the final free throw sequence.
Davenport outscored the Dragons 19-12 in the fourth quarter and shot 42.7 percent compared to 35.7 percent from the Dragons who missed their final four field goals and turned it over twice in the final 3:39. Gustafson had her second double-double of the season and fourth of her career with 14 points and 10 rebounds for the Panthers. She shot 6-of-8 from the field and also had a career-high four blocked shots and two steals in 30 minutes. Walker added a career-high 11 points, three assists and three steals in 27 minutes. Bryant also had a career-high with 12 points in 19 minutes off the bench.
The Panthers are back in action again at home this Tuesday at 7 PM against Northwood (2-2).
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