BOXSCORE
AUGUSTA, Ga. – The Paine College women's basketball team captured the
2026 NCCAA Division I South Regional Championship with an impressive
98–77 victory over Virginia University of Lynchburg on Thursday, March 5th. With the win, the Lady Lions earned the regional crown and secured their place in the
2026 NCCAA Division I Women's Basketball National Tournament, scheduled for
March 18–21 in Point Lookout, Missouri.
Paine set the tone early and never relinquished control, using a balanced offensive attack and aggressive defense to build a commanding first-half lead. The Lady Lions led by as many as 29 points during the contest and forced numerous turnovers that translated into fast-break opportunities and transition scoring.
GAME RECAP
Fast Start Sets the Tone
Paine wasted no time asserting control of the championship matchup, opening the game with a strong first quarter to take a 28–12 lead. The Lady Lions capitalized on turnovers and second-chance opportunities, scoring efficiently in transition while limiting Virginia University of Lynchburg to just five field goals in the opening period.
The momentum continued in the second quarter as Paine extended its advantage with a balanced scoring effort. Strong defensive pressure forced multiple turnovers, allowing the Lady Lions to push the pace and create scoring chances in transition. Paine carried a
50–29 lead into halftime, firmly in control of the contest.
Offensive Firepower Continues
The third quarter saw the Lady Lions maintain their offensive rhythm, shooting an efficient
50 percent from the field during the period. Paine consistently attacked the basket while controlling the boards, preventing Virginia University of Lynchburg from mounting any serious comeback.
Despite a late push from Virginia University of Lynchburg in the fourth quarter, Paine answered each surge and maintained a comfortable margin down the stretch. The Lady Lions closed out the game with strong execution on both ends of the floor to secure the 98–77 championship victory.
OFFENSIVE LEADERS
Paine finished the game shooting 32-of-83 (38.6%) from the field while knocking down nine three-pointers and converting 25-of-36 free throws.
BY THE NUMBERS
- 98 – Total points scored by Paine in the regional championship game
- 38 – Points scored by Ayva Tillmon to lead all scorers
- 16 – Rebounds by Kyra McCrary to anchor the Lady Lions on the glass
- 37 – Points scored off turnovers by Paine's defense
- 44 – Fast-break points generated by the Lady Lions' transition offense
UP NEXT
- With the victory, Paine College advances to the 2026 NCCAA Division I Women's Basketball National Tournament, scheduled for March 18–21 in Point Lookout, Missouri, where the Lady Lions will compete for a national championship.
