WINGATE, N.C. -- The Fayetteville State women's basketball team put up a valiant effort on the road against Wingate, holding the Bulldogs to just 18.8% shooting from beyond the arc. Despite their defensive prowess, the Broncos fell short, losing 56-52 on Wednesday.

Wingate, now 1-2 on the season, was led by Lia Anderson, who scored 17 points and pulled down 17 rebounds. 

Keayna McLaughlin was a standout for the Broncos, leading the team with 12 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and two steals. Morgan Graham also made significant contributions with six points and eight rebounds, while KaNyah O'Neal chipped in with four points and two steals.

McLaughlin's hustle on the offensive glass was crucial, as she grabbed three offensive rebounds, helping Fayetteville State secure 14 offensive boards overall. These efforts translated into 13 second-chance points, keeping the Broncos competitive throughout the game.

Defensively, Fayetteville State was effective in disrupting Wingate's offense, forcing 16 turnovers while committing 13 themselves. These turnovers were converted into nine points for the Broncos, with McLaughlin's two steals leading the defensive charge.

The game was tightly contested from the start. Fayetteville State kept it close in the first quarter, trailing by just two points at 16-14. Wingate extended their lead to 28-23 in the second quarter, but the Broncos responded with a 5-0 run, highlighted by a three-pointer from McLaughlin, to tie the game at 28 going into halftime.

After the break, Wingate managed to edge ahead, leaving Fayetteville State trailing 42-40 as they entered the fourth quarter. The Broncos hit two three-pointers in the final period, contributing to their 12 points in the quarter, but it wasn't enough to close the gap, and they ultimately fell 56-52.

Throughout the game, the Broncos held the Bulldogs to 35.5% shooting from the field and recorded assists on 67% of their made baskets, showcasing excellent ball movement. Their perimeter defense was solid, limiting Wingate to 19% shooting from three-point range on 16 attempts. The bench contributed significantly, adding 19 points to the team's total. Fayetteville State's defense forced 16 turnovers and recorded five blocks, while dominating the offensive glass with 14 offensive rebounds. Keayna McLaughlin led the team with 12 points, and Nyah Wilkins grabbed a team-high nine rebounds.

Despite the loss, Fayetteville State's performance highlighted their defensive tenacity and ability to create second-chance opportunities, setting a strong foundation for the rest of the season. The Broncos will look to bounce back when they take on Augusta on Saturday, November 16th at 2 PM at home in Capel Arena.