THOMASVILLE, Ga. – The Thomas Night Hawks showed out in their home opener, defeating Columbia International Rams 74-48 on Saturday in the TU Gym.
The Night Hawks fell behind early following back-to-back threes from the Rams. However,
Zyi'Kiera King knocked down a pair of threes of her own to gain the lead. Then a couple of free throws and a layup from
LaTarius Montgomery helped Thomas stay in front. Next, an
Elicia Smith three and layup from
Destiny Hill gave the Night Hawks a seven-point lead. With 12 seconds left, Smith hit another three before the quarter came to an end. In the second quarter, Thomas maintained the lead by crashing the offensive glass and working their way in the paint. They went on a 13-4 run from the 7:13 mark; highlighted back-to-back threes from Smith and
Tieraney Bolton.The Night Hawks carried a 38-23 lead going into the locker room.
After halftime, Thomas continued the onslaught in the third; ripping off a 17-7 run to hold a 55-34 lead going into the final quarter. Columbia International started the fourth off with a 13-2 run bring the lead down to 10 with 4:32 to go. However, Montgomery fought through contact for a layup and the foul. she drained the free throw to complete the and-one opportunity. The Night Hawks continued to build momentum as a steal from Hill led to King getting fouled on a three point attempt. She made two of three from the stripe to bring the lead back up to 14. Then King knocked down a three with 1:52 to go which dashed the comeback hopes for the Rams, sealing the victory for Thomas. A 17-1 run in the final 3:44 proved to be the difference for the Night Hawks in the win.
King finished with 14 points, five boards and three assists. Montgomery followed up with 14 points and 10 rebounds for the double-double. She added two assists, two blocks and two steals as well. Bolton dropped 12 points with seven rebounds and two steals. Hill had six points, eight boards, four assists and a steal. Lastly, Smith added 13 points, four rebounds and an assist. Thomas dominated the glass, nabbing 56 rebounds to Columbia International's 35. The defense held the Rams to only 20 percent from deep; not allowing a three in the second and third quarters.
The Night Hawks will be on the road on Monday, November 3rd at 5:30p.m. for a matchup against Coastal Georgia.
