Smith buckets 24, Sellars posts debut double-double in win over Ecclesia

November 2, 2021

by Dustin Semore, Sports Information Director

PARAGOULD, Ark. – Crowley's Ridge College women's basketball began their campaign for a return trip to the NAIA Women's Basketball National Tournament with a convincing win over Ecclesia (Ark.) College 81-47. Four Lady Pioneers ended the night in double-digits highlighted by Mickayla Smith's 8-18 night from deep and Madison Sellar's double-double.

Ecclesia (2-1) jumped out to an early 6-2, but the Lady Pioneers (1-0) got into gear to score the next 15 points by holding the visiting Royals scoreless over the next 5:04. Mickayla Smith went 3-5 from long range to lead the Lady Pioneers to a 24-11 lead after the first quarter.

Utilizing his reserves in the second quarter, Coach Brad Phillips' Lady Pioneers were vaulted to a 41-25 lead on the five-point quarter by sophomore Kaia Williams.

Crowley's Ridge outscored the Royals 25-9 in the third quarter, heralded by Smith's four three-pointers.

CRC outrebounded Ecclesia 53-38 while turning 22 Royal turnovers into 31 points.

Madison Sellars began her collegiate career with 12 points and 10 rebounds, while Lindsey Browning pulled down 10 boards of her own.

Smith led the way offensively, tallying 24 points, all from long range. Her eight makes tied the program record (which she has already tied two previous times) for the most three-point field goals in a single game. Lizzy Rowton and Leah Still both added 10 points in their debut.

Up Next

Crowley's Ridge will venture to the Jayhawk State to participate in Manhattan Christian (Kan.) College's MCC Classic. The Lady 'Neers will tip off against Stephens (Mo.) College Friday, November 5, at 4 p.m. before taking on the hosting Thunder on Saturday, November 6, at 10 a.m.