KENNESAW, Ga.- For the first time since 2014-15, Kennesaw State enters conference play with an above .500 record after a decisive 88-49 win over Middle Georgia State this afternoon (Dec. 31).
 
"I am so excited for this win. With this victory, we go into conference play with a winning record for the first time in five seasons," said Head Coach Agnus Berenato. "We played this one without (Alexis) Poole, which was a huge concern. I thought that the team stepped up and played really well."
 
The Owls head into 2020 and conference play with a 6-5 record, its best start since 2014-15, when Kennesaw State began 11-4.
 
It was never close inside the Convocation Center, as the Owls began the game on a 7-0 run. Kennesaw State extended the lead to 17 at the end of the first period and held a 48-16 advantage at the break. Kennesaw State stifled the Knights in the third quarter after a 6-2 run by Middle Georgia State and entered into the fourth quarter leading 65-37.
 
KSU did not slow up in the fourth quarter and punctuated the largest margin of victory this season with two Gillian Piccolino free throws to put the Owls up 99-49.
 
Carlotta Gianolla led the Owls with 21 points and 14 rebounds, her third double-double of the season. Amani Johnson was impressive on the court as well, as the sophomore netted 11 points and dished out 10 assists, just one short of her career high (11, Nov. 28, 2018 vs Georgia Southern).
 
Simina Avram scored 12 points, a season-high, while Piccolino recorded 18, a new career high. Breanna Hoover dished out six assists in the win, which set a career high for the junior. She also scored 10 points.
 
Gabi Legister was impactful, as she tied her career-high with nine points.
 
The Owls begin conference play on Saturday (Jan. 3) at home against Stetson. Tipoff is slated for 2 p.m.