Bulldogs Defeat Bluefield for First Conference Win

BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - Union Commonwealth University's women's basketball team (2-8, 1-4 AAC) defeated Bluefield (0-10, 0-4 AAC) on Wednesday afternoon at Robsion Arena, 79-65. 

Freshman forward Aymanni Wynn led the Bulldogs with 20 points, adding five rebounds, a team-high two blocks, one assist, and one steal. Junior guard Rachel Smith followed with a strong outing of her own, finishing with 16 points and two assists. 

Freshman forward Kylie Noe paced Union on the glass with six rebounds while contributing eight points, two steals, and a block. 

As a team, the Bulldogs shot an efficient 46.7% from the field and collected an impressive 15 steals.

How It Happened

First Quarter: Union Commonwealth 19, Bluefield 7

Union set the tone early by controlling the pace and applying constant defensive pressure, forcing 10 turnovers that led to easy scoring opportunities. The Bulldogs stayed aggressive at the rim and on the boards, turning second-chance looks into a steady lead. Momentum continued to build with Wynn's three-point play, a transition finish from freshman guard Aniyah Carter, and a quick scoring burst from Smith. A late layup from freshman center Lindsey Pirkle capped a balanced team effort, sending Union into the second quarter ahead 19–7.

Second Quarter: Union Commonwealth 42, Bluefield 12

The bulldogs controlled the second quarter from the start, opening with threes from sophomore point guard Emrey Glover and Rodgers to spark a 7–1 run and extend the lead to 27–8. Union continued to create points off turnovers and push the pace, with contributions from Pirkle and freshman guard Akeeviah Betts. A late surge from Wynn, highlighted by a three and a strong finish inside, helped Union take a dominant 42–12 lead into halftime.

Third Quarter: Union Commonwealth 69, Bluefield 38

Union controlled the third quarter, capitalizing on turnovers and three-pointers from Wynn, Smith, and Betts, while freshman forward Ella Coffey's strong defense helped the Bulldogs extend their lead. Union went into the fourth quarter up 69–38, carrying momentum and control of the game into the final period.

Fourth Quarter: Union Commonwealth 79, Bluefield 65

In the fourth quarter, Bluefield made a late push with three-pointers from Abby O'Quinn and Maddie Day, along with inside scoring from Lauren Bragg. However, Union Commonwealth maintained control, with key baskets and assists from Ella Coffey and sophomore forward Harper Coffey, securing a 79-65 victory.

To see the Baymont Inn Player of the Game, click here. 

Up Next

Union women's basketball will hit the road on Saturday, Dec. 6, at 2:00 p.m. to take on Truett McConnell at Benjamin F. Brady Arena.