November 17, 2024 – The Southeastern Baptist College Chargers squared off against the Bob Jones University Bruins in an intense battle to open the NCCAA South Region basketball season. Despite a valiant effort marked by stellar performances from Laura Cobb and Sarahia Hurd, the Chargers fell short in a game that showcased fierce competition and momentum shifts.
The Bruins took the early lead with a sharp offensive start, driven by #14, who posted 7 of their 24 first-quarter points. The Chargers' response came from Laura Cobb, who not only scored their first points but led the team with 7 points in the opening frame. Supported by Hurd's contribution of 4 points, the Chargers showcased their dominance in the paint, with Cobb and Hurd grabbing a combined 20 rebounds—14 of those belonging to Hurd.
The Chargers trailed 24-17 at the end of the first quarter, but the second quarter belonged to them. With a lockdown defense that allowed only 2 points and stifled the Bruins' offense to a dismal 1-for-14 shooting, Southeastern Baptist surged ahead. Cobb added 8 points, while Hurd chipped in 4, propelling the Chargers to a 14-2 run that saw them take a 31-26 lead into halftime.
The third quarter was a seesaw battle. No team was able to seize control until the momentum shifted in favor of the Bruins late in the period when Hurd was forced to exit after a collision with the Bruins' #21. The absence of Hurd, who needed treatment for a cut above her eye, allowed Bob Jones to mount a comeback and tie the game at 37 by the end of the quarter.
Hurd's return in the fourth quarter was met with cheers, but the Chargers struggled to regain their rhythm. Turnovers proved to be their undoing, with 26 turnovers in the second half alone contributing to a season-high total of 39. Their shooting woes compounded the problem, as the Chargers went just 1-for-10 from beyond the arc.
Breyonce' Jim played a key role defensively, collecting 9 rebounds and adding 3 steals and 3 assists. Sanaa Holmes logged a season-high 40 minutes and contributed 4 points on efficient 2-for-4 shooting.
Head Coach Milligan expressed mixed emotions post-game. "I'm proud of the effort tonight but felt like we let one slip away. We have to take better care of the ball, especially in region games if we want to win. We're a young team, but we need to find ways to close out games and ensure we get a shot every time down the floor."
The Chargers will head on the road for an exhibition match-up against Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on November 18 at 5:30 p.m.
