Lady Eagles Split at Pensacola Classic, Improve to 7–1 on the Season

PENSACOLA, Fla. – The Meridian Community College women's basketball team showed its strength and depth over the weekend at the Pensacola Classic, finishing 1–1 and improving to 7–1 overall on the season. The Lady Eagles bounced back from their first loss of the year with an impressive response in Saturday's win.

Meridian entered the Classic coming off a road victory Thursday night against Wallace Community College–Selma, their second win over the Lady Patriots this season, before traveling to Hartsell Arena for the two-day event.

On Friday, the Lady Eagles opened play against tournament hosts Pensacola State College in front of an energized home crowd. Meridian jumped out to an early lead, holding a 19–12 advantage after the first quarter behind Reigning MACCC Player of the Week Terica Smith, who scored 10 of the team's 19 points.

Pensacola State trimmed the lead to one by halftime, with Meridian clinging to a 34–33 edge. The teams continued trading baskets throughout the third quarter, with the Lady Pirates taking a narrow 47–45 lead heading into the final period. Cold shooting late would prove costly for Meridian, as Pensacola State closed out the 63–58 win.

Smith finished with 21 points, while Awa Diouf added 8 and Nataysia Willis chipped in 7. Despite the loss, Head Coach Jocelyn McGilberry was encouraged by her team's effort in a challenging environment.

"We showed heart and composure in a tough road setting," McGilberry said. "I wanted to see how we'd respond after our first loss, and the next game showed me exactly what I needed to see."

That response came Saturday morning, as the Lady Eagles bounced back to defeat Bishop State Community College 63–59. Meridian led 22–18 after the opening quarter thanks to strong bench play, including Awa Diouf's 7 first-quarter points. The Lady Eagles stretched their lead to 11 by halftime, 39–28, behind key shooting from freshman Ashlynn Stephens, who knocked down several three-pointers and led Meridian with 10 points at the break.

Bishop State closed the gap to four points heading into the fourth, but Meridian held strong to secure the win. Stephens finished with a career-high 19 points, including four three-pointers, while Smith added 14 and Diouf 12.

McGilberry said the weekend was valuable for her team's growth and confidence moving forward.

"We played two quality teams and learned a lot about ourselves," she said. "Our bench stepped up in big moments, and that's going to be huge for us as the season continues. I love the direction we're heading."

The Lady Eagles will take a short Thanksgiving break before returning home to host East Central Community College on Monday, December 1, at 5:30 p.m. in Graham Gymnasium.

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