LC State Women Triumph in Nail-Biting Victory, Remain Undefeated
The Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC) women’s basketball team pulled off a gutsy 71-70 win over Shawnee State at the Bevo Francis Classic in Rio Grande, Ohio. This wild finish keeps the Warriors undefeated at 5-0.
It was a dramatic comeback. Payton Hymas and Sitara Byrd both dropped 16 points, helping the team erase a nine-point halftime deficit.
The Warriors proved they can handle pressure. They showed plenty of resilience and a knack for stepping up when it mattered.
Game Highlights and Key Moments
Table of Contents
LCSC trailed 40-31 at halftime, facing a fired-up Shawnee State squad. But then, the third quarter happened.
The Warriors exploded, outscoring Shawnee State 22-9. Suddenly, momentum swung their way.
The game stayed tight all the way. Payton Hymas hit two clutch free throws in the final seconds, sealing the deal.
Third-Quarter Turnaround
That third quarter really changed everything. LCSC came out of the break with fresh energy and just took over.
They found their rhythm on both ends—offense started clicking, and the defense clamped down. That set up a wild finish.
Decisive Free Throws
Every point counted in this one. Hymas stepped to the line and calmly knocked down two free throws near the end.
Talk about nerves of steel. Those shots made all the difference.
Individual Performances
Several Warriors delivered when it counted. Let’s break down who stood out:
- Payton Hymas: 16 points, nine assists, and those game-winning free throws.
- Sitara Byrd: Another 16 points, plus seven rebounds. She did a bit of everything.
- Darian Herring: Double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds. Big impact inside.
- Lindsey Wilson: Chipped in 13 points, giving the offense another spark.
Hymas and Byrd Lead the Charge
Hymas and Byrd really set the tone. Their scoring and hustle helped dig out of that early hole.
Hymas also dished out nine assists, finding open teammates. Byrd’s seven boards kept possessions alive.
Herring’s Double-Double
Darian Herring came up big in the paint. Fourteen points, twelve rebounds—she was everywhere inside.
Her presence on the boards and her scoring punch made a noticeable difference.
Team Dynamics and Strategy
LCSC showed they can adapt and make adjustments on the fly. The third-quarter surge didn’t just happen—it was the result of some smart tweaks.
Coach Caelyn Orlandi’s leadership played a big part. She made key moves at halftime that sparked the comeback.
Coach Orlandi’s Impact
Orlandi’s experience really shone through. She knows how to motivate her team and find answers when things get tough.
Her halftime adjustments helped flip the script. You can tell her emphasis on grit has rubbed off on the players.
Book Your Dream Vacation Today
Flights | Hotels | Vacation Rentals | Rental Cars | Experiences
Handling High-Pressure Situations
The Warriors kept their cool when the game got tight. That kind of composure isn’t easy to teach.
Games like this build confidence for the road ahead. You have to wonder—how far can this team go if they keep their poise?
Upcoming Challenges
Next up, the Warriors take on host Rio Grande in the tournament. It’s another chance to prove themselves and keep the streak alive.
They’ll need to stay focused. Rio Grande won’t make it easy.
Preparing for Rio Grande
This matchup is another big test. Preparation and game planning will matter just as much as talent.
The coaching staff will look at what worked—and what didn’t—against Shawnee State. Adjustments are coming.
Maintaining Momentum
Keeping the momentum going is huge. The Warriors have something special brewing, but they can’t let up now.
Confidence and chemistry are building. Can they stay unbeaten? That’s the question everyone’s asking.
Conclusion
The Lewis-Clark State College women’s basketball team pulled off a wild 71-70 win over Shawnee State. That game really showed off their grit and skill.
Payton Hymas, Sitara Byrd, and Darian Herring all stepped up, making it clear this team’s got some serious depth. Coach Caelyn Orlandi kept things steady, making smart calls when it mattered most.
Next up, they’ll face Rio Grande. If they want to keep this streak alive, they’ll need to stay locked in and not let up.
They’re still unbeaten, which feels huge. Plus, this kind of nail-biter gives them the kind of experience you just can’t fake—maybe that’s what sets up a great season.
For more details on this game, check out the full article on the Lewis-Clark State women’s basketball team’s thrilling victory.