NEED TO KNOW:
Score: Life U 61, Thomas 53
Records: Life U, 10-8 (SSAC, 5-2); Thomas, 6-9 (SSAC, 2-4)
 
THOMASVILLE, Ga. - The Life U women's basketball team traveled to Thomasville to secure a 61-53 victory over Thomas University on Thursday evening.
 
Aniyah Offutt finished with 20 points and eight rebounds to lead the team in the close game, and Guard Dianis Hurtado followed up with eleven points and six rebounds.  
 
In a tightly contested quarter, both Life U and Thomas struggled with turnovers and missed shots. Thomas opened with a layup, while Life U responded with a layup from Offutt and a three-pointer from Kaci Scott. Life U closed the gap with a series of free throws from Hurtado, a layup from Offutt, and a jumper from Kaden McCorvey.
 
In the second quarter, the Running Eagles took control with a strong play from Offutt, who scored multiple layups and added free throws to give her team a 36-27 lead. After a back-and-forth start, including a 3-pointer from Tajma Krslak, Life U went on a run. They extended their lead key plays from Hurtado and Offutt, while Thomas struggled with turnovers and missed shots. Life's defense, including steals and rebounds, helped seal the second quarter in their favor.
 
The Running Eagles then proceeded to extend their lead in the third quarter with another strong offensive performance. Offutt started the quarter with a layup, followed by a layup from Khloe Vaughn to push the lead to 40-29. Despite a timeout and some defensive efforts by Thomas, Life continued to dominate, finishing the quarter with a 49-36 lead.
 
In the final quarter, Life U extended their lead to 52-36 with a three-pointer from Hurtado. Thomas fought back, narrowing the gap to 54-38. The Running Eagles then responded with two free throws from McCorvey to push the lead to 57-42. At the end, Thomas made a late push, however, Hurtado's free throws sealed the win for Life U, 61-53.
 
Up next, Life U will be back in action against Brewton-Parker College at the Eagles' Nest on Thursday, January 16th at 5.30 pm.
 
TURNING POINT:

- The Running Eagles went on a 9-2 run in the second quarter to separate from the Night Hawks. 

STANDOUT PERFORMANCES:

- Offutt and Hurtado both delivered dominant performances, showcasing their versatility with 20 and eleven points. 
 
- Scott and Offutt lead the team with eleven and eight rebounds, respectively.