NEED TO KNOW:
Score: LaGrange 52, Piedmont 49
Records: Piedmont, 2-4; LaGrange, 5-3

DEMOREST, Ga. - Despite an outstanding second half defensive effort, Piedmont women's basketball saw its rally fall short in a 52-49 home loss to LaGrange on Saturday afternoon in Cave Arena.

In the Collegiate Conference of the South opener, the Lions fell behind by 18 points in the early going and clawed their way back into the game late. Unfortunately, time ran out on the comeback. 

The defensive effort in the second half was strong, as the Lions held the Panthers to just eight second half points.

Ava Hunter and Kylie Watkins led the way for Piedmont on the offensive end. The duo were the only two Lions in double figures and kept the Lions in the game. Watkins contributed all over the box score, leading the team with 17 points while also adding six rebounds, four assists, four steals and two blocks. Hunter earned the start and totaled 16 points to go with four rebounds and three steals. Gracie Deetz delivered offensive support in the second half, with eight points and eight rebounds off the bench.

After the Lions led 6-4 early in the opening quarter, LaGrange reeled off a game altering 20-0 run to build a 24-6 lead.

From there, Piedmont was in catch-up mode the rest of the way, trailing by 16 at the break.

Out of halftime, the Lions turned up the defensive intensity in the third quarter holding the Panthers to just three points and cutting their deficit to 47-41 heading to the final quarter.

While the Lions held the Panthers to just five fourth quarter points, they were unable to complete the comeback, falling by three points despite a valiant effort.

Up next, Piedmont will play another CCS contest, with a trip to Asbury next Wednesday, Jan. 10 at 5 p.m.

TURNING POINT:
- LaGrange's 20-0 first quarter run proved to be the difference, putting the Lions in a hole that was just a little too deep.

STANDOUT PERFORMANCES:
- Watkins continued her outstanding freshman season, scoring 17 points and adding six rebounds, four steals, four assists and two blocks.

HOW TO FOLLOW:
- To stay up to date on all information regarding Piedmont University Athletics, be sure to visit PiedmontLions.com and connect with the Green and Gold on social media. Follow the Lions on X @PiedmontLions, Instagram: @PiedmontLions, and Facebook.