KENNESAW, Ga. - Kennesaw State used a dominant second quarter to run away from Life University by a 62-45 score Friday night in the Convocation Center.
The Owls (1-1) captured their home-opener thanks to an opportunistic defense. KSU turned 23 Running Eagle turnovers into 24 points, and out-rebounded the competition 40-33.
The Owls outscored the visitors from Marietta 19-6 in the second frame, and held Life without a field goal over the final 2:34. Life was only 2-14 in the quarter, while KSU converted eight of its 13 attempts.
"We couldn't really get our tempo going. Hats off to Life. They played hard and made us work," said head coach
Octavia Blue. "That's what these games are early on to show us what we need to improve and what we need to work."
Kyndall Golden almost pulled off a double-double with eight points and nine rebounds. She was a force defensively with a four blocked shots. Her points, rebounds, and blocks were all career bests.
"We have a lot of new players in new roles, and Kyndall has been playing like this all summer and fall. She has been getting into the gym, rebounding, and igniting us," said Blue. "I was happy to see her play well today."
Keyarah Berry continued her strong start to the season with 12 points. Freshman
Trynce Taylor made her name known to the home crowd with 11 points, and
Morgan Dillard chipped in 10 points with five rebounds.
Berry has hit double-figures in both games this season, and Dillard tied her career best in boards.
"Anytime we get a win, we've got to celebrate. It was our first time playing at home in front of our crowd and in front of our fans. I was really happy with the win," said Blue.
Next, the Owls head to Atlanta for a local matchup with Georgia State Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.
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