Rebounding Key for DSU in 56-47 Win

Nationally fourth-ranked Delta State used a familiar formula — defense, rebounding and Veronica Walker — to grind out a 56-47 win over the North Alabama Lions on Friday in the first round of the women’s NCAA Division II Tournament South Regional at Tucker Coliseum in Russellville.

The Lady Statesmen (27-3), seeded No. 2 in the NCAA South Regional, advance to face Florida Southern in the NCAA Division II Tournament South Regional semifinals at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 12.

Delta State held seventh-seeded North Alabama to 41 percent (19-of-46) shooting from the field and the Lady Statesmen finished with a 39-25 rebounding edge.

DSU grabbed 16 offensive rebounds and finished with a 17-3 advantage in second-chance points.

Walker scored 20 points and collected 15 rebounds for the Lady Statesmen. The All-American was 7-of-15 from the field and 6-of-7 at the free throw line.

Brooke Rhodes added 10 points for Delta State, which advanced to the regional semifinals for a sixth consecutive season.

Niala Harris (13 points), Courtnei Bowens (12 points) and Sanqueeta Meardith (11 points) all reached double figures in scoring for North Alabama (21-7).

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