Royals Dominate Second Half to Secure Key Road Win at Montreat

Montreat, NC- The Johnson University Tennessee women's basketball team picked up a crucial Appalachian Athletic Conference road victory on Wednesday night, defeating Montreat College 98-72. The Royals (22-4, 17-3 AAC) used a dominant second-half performance to pull away in what Head Coach Bryan Lawhon called a "get back game."

The first half was a battle, as both teams traded baskets in a high-paced opening 20 minutes. The Royals trailed 23-20 after the first quarter but responded in the second to go into halftime tied at 42-42. Facing a tough environment, Johnson showed its championship mentality in the final two quarters.

"Proud of my girls for the grit & execution in the second half," Lawhon said. "We went into halftime tied in a hostile environment & executed the adjustments in the 3rd & 4th quarters. We actually had more points in the 4th quarter alone (31) than Montreat did the entire second half (30). Always great to pick up a conference win, but especially a get-back game on the road."

Jordan Heifner led the charge with 22 points, seven assists, and three steals, while Hannah Jones dominated in the paint with 19 points and eight rebounds. Emily Wilson added 16 points, and Bekah Gardner provided a spark off the bench, knocking down four three-pointers on her way to 14 points.

Johnson shot 61.1% from the field in the fourth quarter and 62.5% from beyond the arc, closing out the game in emphatic fashion. The Royals also capitalized on Montreat's mistakes, scoring 42 points off turnovers.

With the win, Johnson strengthens its position near the top of the AAC standings. The Royals will look to keep rolling as they continue their push toward postseason play.