0
0
ASHEVILLE, N.C. — If you like drama, Wednesday’s Southern Conference quarterfinal had it all.
The Harrah’s Cherokee Center buzzed long before tip‑off, but no one expected opening‑quarter energy to match closing‑minute tension. In a contest defined by relentless runs, defensive stops, and heroic individual efforts, the Wofford Terriers women’s basketball team and the Samford Bulldogs played one of the most compelling games of this SoCon Tournament. When it was over, Samford emerged with a 59–57 victory, surviving a furious late charge that had fans on their feet until the final whistle. (samfordsports.com)
This wasn’t just a game; it was a test of nerves, endurance, and will.
Wofford Sets Early Tone, Samford Finds Its Footing
From the first whistle, Wofford attacked with energy. With crisp ball movement and physical drives to the basket, the Terriers jumped to a 16–11 first‑quarter advantage. Little things made the difference early: an offensive rebound here, a turnover forced there, a defensive closeout that led to a transition layup. The Samford defense looked momentarily off-balance, adjusting to Wofford’s rhythm.
But the Bulldogs remained composed.
As the second quarter began, Samford tightened its grip. The Bulldogs’ defense started rotating quicker, closing passing lanes and fighting through screens. That met with immediate results: Wofford scored just seven points in the second quarter, well below its season average. Meanwhile, Samford executed with patience on offense, using crisp passes and off‑ball movement to find open looks.
Senior guard Sierra Godbolt, calm under pressure, used ball fakes and quick pivot moves to create space for mid‑range jumpers, while Briana Rivera positioned herself on the wings, waiting for open three-pointers. Rivera’s timely shots kept defenders honest and helped Samford erase the early deficit. By halftime, Samford led 28–23, having flipped the script with timely shots and a defense that forced Wofford into contested looks.
Samford Surges, Wofford Fights Back
The second half opened with urgency from both sides, but Samford was determined to take control.
The Bulldogs came out with a more aggressive defensive stance, forcing Wofford into early shot clock situations. Samford turned that pressure into easy transition points. Godbolt and Rivera found seams, and Samford began to build a cushion, scoring 23 points in the third quarter and stretching its lead to 18.
Godbolt finished the period with 15 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals. Rivera added 14 points, including four crucial three-pointers. Emily Snoddy dominated inside with 12 rebounds and 9 points, limiting Wofford’s second-chance opportunities. It looked like Samford might run away with the game—but the Terriers refused to fold.
Fueling the comeback was Wofford’s dominance on the boards. The Terriers finished with 39 rebounds to Samford’s 31, scoring 19 second-chance points that kept them within striking distance. Every possession became tense, every basket mattered.
The fourth quarter turned into a nail-biting showdown. Queen Ikhiuwu powered the paint for a double-double: 16 points, 14 rebounds. Molly Masingale added 15 points, and Maddie Heiss contributed 14 points and 11 rebounds. Wofford went on a 14–8 run, cutting the lead to just two.
The score was 57–55 with under three minutes remaining. The crowd was on its feet. Wofford had a chance to tie the game. They moved the ball with precision. They set up a shot.
But Samford’s defense stood firm.
The final attempt rattled the rim and fell short.
59–57. Samford survives.
Wofford, exhausted but proud, slumped to the floor as the buzzer sounded.
Standout Performers
Samford Bulldogs
- Sierra Godbolt: 15 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals — calm and clutch under pressure.
- Briana Rivera: 14 points, 4 three-pointers — timely offense and spacing.
- Emily Snoddy: 9 points, 12 rebounds — dominated the paint and limited second-chance points.
Wofford Terriers
- Queen Ikhiuwu: 16 points, 14 rebounds — relentless inside presence.
- Molly Masingale: 15 points — consistent scoring during the comeback.
- Maddie Heiss: 14 points, 11 rebounds — inside scoring and rebounding presence.
What This Win Means
Samford advances to the SoCon semifinals, demonstrating balance, resilience, and execution under pressure. Wofford leaves the tournament with pride, having erased an 18-point deficit and pushed the Bulldogs to their limits. This was a game defined by shifts in momentum, clutch shots, defensive stops, and heart. Fans who were there will remember it. Those who weren’t will feel like they were.
About the Author
