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AIKEN, S.C. - Using stifling second-half defense and strong shooting of their own in the period, the Georgia College & State University women's basketball team (5-3) pulled away from Peach Belt Conference (PBC) foe USC Aiken (4-4) 72-59 in non-conference action.

The Bobcats shot a whopping 52 percent (14-27) in the second half, compared to just 21 percent (5-24) for USCA during that same time frame. The 48 percent (25-52) shooting from the floor for the entire game was the best effort of the season for Georgia College.

The 'Cats found the visiting rims comfortable from all spots, going 25-of-52 overall, including 9-for-22 (.409) from three point, while adding a 77 percent (13-17) effort from the charity stripe.

Junior guard Shaquana Bleach (Ellenwood, Ga.) exploded for a career-best 14 points off the bench, including 4-of-5 from downtown. Bleach more than doubled her previous best of six points.

Classmate Chimere Jordan (Gray, Ga.) led all scorers with 19 points, her fourth-straight game of double-digit scoring. Senior forward Antoinette Reames (Orlando, Fla.) tallied 13 points with two blocks, also her fourth-straight double-digit scoring game. Senior guard Shandrea Moore (Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.) had a balanced line of seven points, eight boards, three steals and a block.

The Pacers had just one double-digit scorer, as Hannah DeGraffinreed netted 13 points, going 7-of-10 from the free-throw line.

Down 33-31 at the half, the Bobcats took over the lead for good at 43-40 on a Bleach three with 14:23 left. The Bobcats finished strong, on a 17-3 run over the last two minutes.

The Bobcats have a long break, returning to action in the Third Annual Craig Massee Real Estate Classic Monday, Dec. 29 at 7 p.m., hosting Lincoln Memorial University.

The GCSU Department of Athletics, winners of the 2008-09 PBC Commissioner's Cup, sponsors 10 varsity athletic programs at the NCAA Division II level. As a Division II program, GCSU prides itself on balancing the life of the student-athlete, evidenced by the Bobcats' multiple appearances in post-season competition as well as documented academic success and community-service involvement. Sign up at Twitter.com username GCSUSID for up-to-the-minute reports, and visit www.GCSUBobcats.com to nominate your favorite former Bobcats and Colonials to the GCSU Athletics Hall of Fame.