SUNO Knights Women’s Basketball Turns the Corner with Two Straight Wins
November 15, 2024
After a rocky start to the season, the Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) Knights women's basketball team appears to have found its stride, securing back-to-back victories against Thomas University and Wiley College. These wins not only mark a shift in momentum for the Knights but also showcase the team's grit, chemistry, and determination.
Dominating the Nighthawks
The Knights kicked off their resurgence with a 67-53 victory over the Thomas University Nighthawks. Jordan Harris led the charge with 15 points, highlighted by a clutch three-pointer in the first half that extended SUNO's lead to 14 points. Despite a second-half rally by the Nighthawks, SUNO's defense and timely scoring proved decisive.
Harris's steal and three-pointer early in the fourth quarter ignited a pivotal 12-4 run, giving SUNO a commanding 62-47 lead. Tierra Sylvas added to the effort with a transition layup, courtesy of an assist from Zaire McNeal, while Jinaye Pittman's defensive block set the tone for the Knights' dominance in the final stretch.
Pittman (11 points) and Sylvas (10 points) joined Harris in double figures, while Kyren Wilson's all-around performance included nine points, a team-high nine rebounds, and a career-best six steals. Wilson's efforts earned her the HBCU Athletic Conference Freshman of the Week honor.
A Thrilling Conference Opener
The Knights carried their momentum into Thursday's conference opener against Wiley College, securing a gritty 70-62 win in a hostile environment. The matchup featured intense physicality and relentless energy, with SUNO ultimately prevailing in front of a raucous crowd.
The teams traded blows in the first half, but a burst of energy from SUNO late in the second quarter, highlighted by McNeal's scoring and McKenna Harris's defensive block, gave the Knights a 30-26 halftime lead.
The Wildcats clawed back in the third quarter, briefly regaining the lead late in the fourth when Zacyria Dozier's three-pointer made it 62-61, Wiley. SUNO, however, refused to fold. McKenna Harris answered with a three-pointer to reclaim the lead, and the Knights' defense clamped down, holding Wiley scoreless in the final minute. The Harris sisters sealed the victory with clutch free throws, delivering SUNO its first conference win of the season.
Key Contributors and Team Effort
McKenna Harris led the Knights with 13 points, supported by Jordan Harris's 12 points and Sylvas's versatile performance of 12 points, seven rebounds, and five assists. Wilson once again shined, dominating the glass with 11 rebounds while chipping in five points, three assists, and two steals.
The Knights' ability to crash the boards was instrumental, as they outrebounded Wiley 53-46. Their defensive effort also forced key turnovers, creating scoring opportunities in crucial moments.
Building Momentum
SUNO's back-to-back wins signal more than just an improvement in their record—they highlight a team coming together at the right time. From Jordan Harris's clutch plays to Wilson's relentless hustle, the Knights have shown they can compete with grit and composure under pressure.
The Knights will look to extend their win streak Saturday in another conference battle against Philander Smith University. Tipoff is set for 1 p.m., and fans can catch the action on HBCU Plus.
The Road Ahead
With newfound confidence and team chemistry, the SUNO Knights are proving they are a force to be reckoned with in the HBCU Athletic Conference. If these last two games are any indication, SUNO's women's basketball team is just getting started.
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