NEWPORT NEWS, VA – Christopher Newport's women's basketball squad defeated Methodist, 70-68, to advance to the USA South Championship, Friday night in a semifinal game at the Freeman Center.

With the score tied 36-all at halftime, the Monarchs came out and quickly took control of the tempo and lead 46-40 with 15 minutes left. The Captains countered with a 22-6 run to take a 62-52 lead with 5:42 left in the game.

Methodist hit a couple of three-pointers with about a minute to go to cut the lead down to three. After a missed Christopher Newport shot, the Monarchs Ashley Harris was fouled and went to the line and made one of two for the final margin.

MU finished 25-of-52 (48%) from the field, 5-of-14 (36%) from behind the arc and 13-of-19 (68%) from the free throw line. Dezzire Gilliard led the Monarchs with 15 points. Chelsale Hester finished with 14 points and Amanda Underwood added 10 points off the bench.

CNU finished 28-of-57 (49%) from the floor, 2-of-5 (40%) from long range and 12-of-14 (86%) from the charity stripe. Chelsie Schweers led all scorers with 26 points. She also had six boards and five steals. Colandra Rollins added 14 points, Kelly White contributed 10 points and 7 rebounds and Michele Russell also had 10.

Methodist finishes the year 19-8 overall. Christopher Newport improves to 21-6. The Captains will meet Greensboro in the USA South Championship Saturday at 2 pm.

Greensboro advanced to the title game by defeating Ferrum, 117-113, in double overtime. The Pride's Dione Eccles set a new conference record with 56 points.

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