Offensive Struggles Hamper Lady Buccaneers in Philander Smith loss
ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands, February 5, 2025 – Offensive struggles hampered the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) Lady Buccaneers in a 49-37 loss to Philander Smith University on Tuesday evening at the Elridge Blake Sports and Fitness Center. Despite a hot start, the Lady Buccaneers were not able to overcome their shooting woes in the Historically Black College and University Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) game.
UVI began the game aggressively, taking a 12-2 lead. The Lady Buccaneer defense stifled the Lady Panthers, holding them to just 2-for-15 shooting from the field in the opening quarter. The Lady Buccaneers allowed only one basket by their opponents in the first nine minutes of play, ending the first period with a 12-5 lead. However, the momentum shifted in the second quarter as the visiting Lady Panthers had a 12-5 quarter of their own, tying the game at 17 at halftime.
The tide turned in favor of the Lady Panthers in the second half as the Lady Buccaneers struggled, allowing Philander Smith to pull away to a 36-25 lead at the end of the third quarter. Despite an improved offensive performance in the final period, the Lady Buccaneers were unable to erase the deficit, and Philander Smith secured the victory.
Sophomore guard Ashukamay'ah Phillips led the Lady Buccaneers with 16 points, while senior forward Kashay Bass anchored the team defensively with 14 rebounds, three steals, and two blocks.
Head coach Stephanie Cooper commented on the game, stating, "We had a good first half, jumping out early and putting pressure on them. We had to adjust in the second half due to foul trouble. Defensively, we played well, keeping their shooting percentages low, but we struggled to finish on offense. We had to work hard for our baskets in the second half, and even when we improved offensively, it wasn't enough to regain the lead in the fourth quarter."
The Lady Buccaneers will now take a much-needed break after competing in four games over the last six days. Their next competition will come when they welcome Tougaloo College to the Elridge Blake Sports and Fitness for their February 15 matchup.
Photo Credit: Touch Ah Button Studio and Photo Services
