MARYVILLE, Tenn. – The Maryville College women's basketball team delivered a statement performance Tuesday night, locking in defensively and pulling away late to earn a 73–53 victory over Covenant College at the Cooper Athletic Center.
From the opening tip, Maryville dictated the pace. The Scots came out aggressive on both ends of the floor, forcing Covenant into tough looks early while establishing a physical presence in the paint. A strong defensive opening quarter limited Covenant to just 12 points, allowing Maryville to build a 22–12 advantage after one.
Maryville's defense fueled its offense throughout the first period, as quick hands and active ball pressure led to transition opportunities. The Scots consistently attacked the rim, scoring inside and drawing fouls as they controlled the tempo.
Covenant answered in the second quarter, finding rhythm offensively and trimming into the Maryville lead. The Scots weathered the push, continuing to crash the boards and protect the paint, but Covenant's run narrowed the margin to five at halftime, 34–29.
Rather than letting the momentum swing, Maryville responded coming out of the locker room with renewed intensity. The Scots tightened up defensively in the third quarter, forcing turnovers and turning stops into points on the other end. A series of strong defensive possessions helped Maryville stretch the lead back to double digits, as the Scots outscored Covenant 18–12 in the frame.
Maryville's control of the interior proved to be the difference. The Scots consistently found success attacking the paint, finishing the night with 38 points inside while limiting Covenant's second-chance opportunities. The rebounding advantage allowed Maryville to maintain possession and wear down the visitors as the game progressed.
The fourth quarter belonged to the Scots.
Maryville put the game away with its most complete stretch of basketball, scoring 21 points while holding Covenant to just 12. Defensive stops stacked up, the ball moved freely on offense, and the lead steadily grew. The Scots pushed the advantage to as many as 20 points late, sealing the win in convincing fashion.
Maryville finished the night shooting 42.9 percent from the field and 72.4 percent from the free-throw line, capitalizing when it mattered most. Defensively, the Scots limited Covenant to 35.0 percent shooting and forced key turnovers that shifted momentum at critical points in the game.
With the win, Maryville continues to build momentum as conference play intensifies, showcasing a balanced attack, disciplined defense, and the ability to respond when challenged.
By the Numbers
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Final: Maryville 73, Covenant 53
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After One: Maryville led 22–12
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Halftime: Maryville led 34–29
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Points in the Paint: Maryville 38
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Points off Turnovers: Maryville 22
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Fourth Quarter: Maryville outscored Covenant 21–12
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Biggest Lead: 20 points
