KENNESAW STATE 72, SAVANNAH STATE 60 Box Score (PDF) | Box Score (XML) | Highlights

KENNESAW, Ga. – Sparked by a stout full-court pressure defense and a double-double by sophomore forward Allison Johnson, the Kennesaw State women's basketball team posted its first win of the Agnus Berenato era as it defeated Savannah State, 72-60, Saturday (Nov. 26) at the KSU Convocation Center.
 
Johnson, who reached double digits in points and rebounds for the second time this season, scored 15 points and grabbed a career-high 16 rebounds, while senior guard Deandrea Sawyers contributed a season and game-high16 points, while adding six rebounds and five steals.  
 
The Owls (1-4) combined their solid defense with a strong inside game to outscore the Tigers (2-3) 46-26 in the paint and record a 47-30 rebounding advantage. The Kennesaw State defense also forced a season-high 21 turnovers that led to a 25-14 edge in points off turnovers.
 
"We executed our defense the best we have all season. We had three different spirts where we were really good in our 55 and were able to capitalize," Berenato said. "We had our best practice yesterday, and it showed. You play the way you practice and I am really happy for the team."
 
The Owls picked up their defensive intensity midway through the second quarter, using an 11-2 run to end the period and take a 38-29 lead into the locker room at halftime. Kennesaw State forced nine turnovers in the opening half that led to 13 points.
 
"What we were able to do for the first time this season was push the ball in transition and I think the kids like pushing it," Berenato said. "That's the first taste of success they have had with it."
 
Sawyers and Johnson were joined in double figures by Iceis Walker, who scored a season-high 11 points, contributed four rebounds, three assists and three steals.
 
"I thought Deandrea (Sawyers) came in and really, really helped us," Berenato said. "The two people that I have been the hardest on are Allison Johnson and Deandrea, and Deandrea really showed up and helped us today."
 
In addition to her double-double, Johnson added three assists and three blocks.
 
"I come into a game planning to do whatever it takes to help my team get a win," Johnson said. "I don't think about getting a career-high. I'm concerned about the outcome. If I have two points and three rebounds and my team won by 20, I am good with that, too."
 
NEXT UP
The Owls return to action on Tuesday (Nov. 29) when they travel to Athens to take on Georgia beginning at 7 p.m. (ET).

To keep up with the latest Kennesaw State women's basketball news follow the team on Twitter @KSUOwlNation and or by liking Kennesaw State University on Facebook. Follow Coach Berenato on Twitter @KSUCoachB.