Lady Panthers Primed for GCAC Tournament After Strong Regular Season

The hardwood warriors of Philander Smith University are gearing up for a showdown in the upcoming GCAC Hope Credit Union conference tournament after a stellar regular season performance. Led by the seasoned guidance of Coach Brandon Greenwood, who boasts an impressive track record of over 230 victories in his 16-year tenure, the Lady Panthers have firmly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the conference.

With a commanding record of 15-3 in conference play and an overall tally of 22-6, the Lady Panthers have showcased their dominance on numerous occasions throughout the season. Notable victories include hard-fought battles against tough opponents like Freed-Hardeman (47-37) and Bethel University (70-62) on the road, as well as impressive home wins against Faulkner University (78-69) and Rust College (77-68).

This season, Philander Smith has continued its tradition of excellence, consistently clinching the top spot in the conference standings for the past 2-3 years. Furthermore, the team has made its presence felt in the conference championship, securing a spot in the title match three times in the last four years.

Standout players who consistently deliver standout performances on the court are key to the Lady Panthers' success. Ari Winston, in particular, etched her name in Lady Panther history with a monumental display, tallying an astonishing 33 points and 23 rebounds in a game where the team was shorthanded with only six players. Winston, averaging 9.7 points and 7 rebounds per game, embodies resilience and determination.

Joining Winston in the spotlight is Dasia Turner, a formidable force in the paint, averaging an impressive 10 points and 8 rebounds per game. In the backcourt, the Lady Panthers boast a dynamic duo in Myia Yelder and Elaijha Brown. Yelder's defensive prowess shines as she averages 10 points and 2.5 steals per game, while Brown showcases her playmaking skills with 9.8 points, 3.2 assists, and 2 steals per game.

As the regular season draws to a close, the Lady Panthers find themselves in second place, setting the stage for an exhilarating run in the GCAC tournament. Seeded second in the tournament, Philander Smith will square off against the seventh-seeded Wiley University in the opening match. Fresh off a victory against SUNO, Wiley University will face a formidable challenge against the Lady Panthers.

All eyes will be on Tuscaloosa, Alabama, as the GCAC tournament unfolds at Stillman College. Philander Smith University will take the court tomorrow at 1 p.m., ready to showcase their skill, determination, and championship aspirations as they vie for conference glory.