Pilots Continue Winning Ways with Narrow Win Over the Gold Nuggets

Shreveport, Louisiana— In a hard-fought basketball showdown, the LSU Shreveport Pilots emerged victorious against the Xavier (LA) Gold Nuggets with a narrow 61-59 win. With the win the Pilots continue their dominant streak through the Red River moving to 9-0 and have an overall record of 13-2. 

 From the opening tip-off, the game proved to be a fiercely contested battle as both teams exchanged baskets and continually fought for control. The Pilots took an early lead in the first quarter, finishing with a score of 16-13. They went 6-16 from the field, connecting on two three-pointers. However, the Gold Nuggets responded strongly in the second quarter, holding the Pilots to just eight points and taking a halftime lead of 26-24. In the second quarter, the Pilots were outshot 11 to 14, with the Gold Nuggets hitting five field goals, including two three-pointers. 

Coming out determined in the third quarter, the Pilots orchestrated a comeback, outscoring the Gold Nuggets 18-16. They hit 9-of-16 from the field, setting the stage for a thrilling final quarter. In the fourth quarter, the Pilots continued their momentum, outscoring their opponents 19-17. They went 4-15 from the field, sank two three-pointers, and made 9-of-14 free throws to secure the narrow victory. 

Derrica Gilbert led the way for the Pilots with an impressive 16 points, 15 of which came from three-pointers. She was 1-2 at the free-throw line and contributed four rebounds, one block, and one steal. Destanee Roblow closely followed with 15 points, going 6-11 from the field and making 3-of-4 free throws. Roblow also added four rebounds, one steal, and an impressive two blocks. Tiarra Tillison rounded out the trio of double-digit scorers with ten points, showcasing her scoring prowess with four field goals and two made free throws. 

The Pilots will be back in action Saturday Janaury 20th as they face conference opponent North American. Tip-off is set for 2:00pm CT from The Dock in Shreveport, Louisiana. 

MORE INFORMATION 
For more information and updates on LSUS Athletics please visit lsusathletics.com, 'like' us on Facebook at LSU Shreveport Athletics or follow us on Twitter and Instagram @lsus_athletics and @lsusathletics.