Grizzlies Fall Short in Fourth-Quarter Battle Against Life University
A hard-fought contest saw the Georgia Gwinnett College women’s basketball team suffer a 59-55 defeat at the hands of Life University on Tuesday evening in Marietta, Georgia, despite a stellar performance from sophomore Jamya Griffin. The Grizzlies, now 6-4 on the season, saw a promising second quarter lead evaporate as the Running Eagles capitalized in the final frame.
Second-Quarter Surge Not Enough for GGC
Georgia Gwinnett College established a strong presence early, particularly in the second quarter, where they outscored Life University 21-11 to build a 35-28 halftime advantage. Jamya Griffin spearheaded the offensive effort, ultimately finishing with a game-high 22 points. Consecutive layups from junior Maddie Presha gave the visitors a 27-23 lead with 1:46 remaining in the first half, and Griffin extended the advantage to seven points just before the break.
Life University Responds with Decisive Fourth Quarter
Despite the strong start, Life University mounted a comeback in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Grizzlies 16-9. The Running Eagles opened the final period with a 5-0 run, regaining the lead for the first time since the second quarter at 48-46 following a layup by Aniyah Offutt with 7:03 remaining. While GGC briefly regained the lead at 53-50, a series of missed opportunities and crucial baskets from Life proved decisive.
Key Moments Down the Stretch
The final minute proved particularly challenging for the Grizzlies. Trailing 57-55, GGC missed two consecutive 3-point attempts. A subsequent offensive foul further hampered their chances. Life University sealed the victory with late free throws, including a crucial shot by Offutt to extend the lead to 59-55 with nine seconds remaining.
“Our players played their hearts out and I couldn’t be more proud of the effort that they displayed against a great opponent that outrebounded us,” said Head Coach Tory Wooley. “We weren’t able to take advantage of our opportunities down the stretch. We’ll learn from this game and we’re excited to get back in the gym next week and then get back in the win column.”
By the Numbers: Rebounding and Efficiency
The game highlighted a significant rebounding disparity, with Life University dominating the boards 47-32. While GGC shot 60% from the floor during the second quarter, their overall field goal percentage was 36.2%, slightly lower than Life’s 35.6%. Maddie Presha contributed a strong all-around performance with 13 points and 10 rebounds, securing a double-double. The Grizzlies recorded nine steals throughout the contest.
Looking Ahead: Teddy Bear Toss Night
Georgia Gwinnett College will return to action on Thursday, December 4, hosting Columbia College (South Carolina) in the Convocation Center. The game, scheduled for 6 p.m., will also be “Teddy Bear Toss Night.”
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News & Notes:
- Life University improves to 7-1 on the season.
- The Grizzlies are currently 1-2 on the road for the 2025-26 season.
- A total of 37 fouls were called during Tuesday’s contest.
