Returning from an impressive and crucial 54-51 win against the UNCG Spartans on Thursday, the Bucs were able to capture another major win against SoCon foe, the Western Carolina Catamounts. Entering the game on Saturday, the Bucs were heavy favorites, with a 17-9 record, they were up against a struggling Catamounts squad. 

Before the tip, the game was recognized as Senior Day, and the final home game of the season. The ceremony took place at half court, featuring seniors on the team who made major contributions towards the team’s overall success. Players such as guards, Meleah Kirtner (Wytheville, Va), and Breanne Beatty (Worthington, Ohio) were recipients. 

The big win in Brooks Gym not only saw the Bucs finish with a 12-3 home record, but also saw many seasons best performances. Defensively, the Bucs only allowing 33 total points would become the least number of points allowed all season. However, the 38-point margin of victory marked the largest victory all season.  

Nearly as soon as the ball was tipped, the attack from the Bucs towards the Catamounts was on its way. The Bucs would start with force, scoring the first nine points of the game. The first quarter saw ETSU outscore Western Carolina 22-12. If that’s not impressive enough, the second quarter will do the trick, as the gameplay became even more into action, outscoring their opponent once again, a whopping 16-2. The Bucs would enter halftime up 38-14. 

The third quarter would see the Catamounts try a comeback, but fall short, as they were outscored once again 17-12. Leading at the start of the fourth quarter by 29 points, the Bucs never once would consider slowing down. The final quarter would see the Bucs complete the game on a 16-7 run, mounting the major win. 

The game’s stars would include freshmen guard, Brecken Snotherly (Franklinville, N.C.) leading the team with 14 points and going 3 for 3 from the field. Veteran leader, junior guard Nevaeh Brown (Charlotte, N.C.) would also drain three long shots from the three-point line, totaling 13 points total.

Photo of Nevaeh Brown during basketball game against Western Carolina. (Will Rowland/East Tennessean)

This game certainly built a lot of momentum for the Buccaneers. Building onto the winning ways and culture, Head Coach Brenda Mock Brown instills into the program. The Bucs return to action on the road against SoCon opponent, The Wofford Terriers on Thursday, Feb. 29 at 7 p.m.  

For more information on ETSU women’s basketball, visit ETSUBucs.com. 

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