MHU wins double OT thriller in season opener

MARS HILL, N.C. - The Mars Hill women's basketball team (1-0) secured a hard-fought 61-59 victory over Belmont Abbey (0-1) on Friday night in Chambers Gymnasium, downing the Crusaders in double overtime.

After trailing 20-15 in the first quarter, the Lions responded with an 18-5 run in the second to take a 33-25 lead at halftime. Aaliyah El was instrumental in the rally, scoring eight of her 16 points in the second period.

The Crusaders responded in the third, holding Mars Hill to just three points while dropping 15 in the frame. The Lions outscored Belmont Abbey 13-9 to force the first extra frame.

With just three points scored apiece in the overtime stanza, the teams battled to a second, where, in the final seconds of the game, Maddie Gillie was fouled, sending her to the charity stripe. Gillie drained both free throws and a last second toss from the Crusaders fell short of the goal as the buzzer sounded.

Gillie played 49 of the 50 minutes on Friday, ending the night with 13 points and four rebounds.

The Crusaders, led by Peyton Nation's 19 points and eight rebounds, fought hard but fell short in the final moments. Abigail Crain added 15 points for Belmont Abbey.

Tateyoina Harris also had a strong outing, finishing with 14 points, eight rebounds, and seven blocks while Elyseia Brown contributed 10 rebounds and five assists in a well-rounded performance.

Mars Hill will look to build on the victory when they host Southern Wesleyan on Saturday, November 9 at 3 p.m. in Chambers Gymnasium to conclude the South Atlantic Conference/Conference Carolinas Challenge.