McKENZIE, Tenn. – Playing their first non-exhibition game in six days, Martin Methodist was unable to overcome a slumping shooting night in an 82-73 loss to Mobile (Ala.) at the Bethel (Tenn.) University Classic Friday afternoon.
After defeating Pensacola Christian 81-49 last Saturday, the RedHawks (2-4) returned to their regular-season schedule against the Rams (2-0) in the first of four games at Bethel University over the next two weekends.
The RedHawks got off to a fast start Friday, but went cold as the half went on, ultimately shooting just 37% from the floor in the game's opening 20 minutes. The Rams, meanwhile built a 47-39 halftime lead after shooting nearly 52% in the first half.
Kyra Knight posted 18 points on an 8-of-11 shooting night to lead the RedHawks, who had four total scorers eclipse double figures.
Jessy Christopher added 15 points, six of which came from beyond the arc. The senior guard finished a perfect 5-of-5 from the free throw line.
Bobbi Dodson continued her strong start to the season, scoring 14 points on a 3-of-5 shooting effort. The junior was especially impressive at the free throw line, however, sinking a career-high seven free throws on eight attempts.
Becca Smithson notched 13 total points, highlighted by a team-high three 3-pointers.
As a team, however, the RedHawks were outrebounded 34-33 and shot one less free throw (23) than the Rams (24).
"Mobile is a very good team," RedHawks head coach Jamy Bechler said. "They were physical. They outrebounded us and got to the free throw line more than we did. That is unusual for us. We saw some good things today but we have to continue to improve and get better."
Deonica McCormick led the charge offensively for the Rams, scoring 20 points on a 7-of-15 shooting performance.
Friday's game also saw Keri O'Neal return to the floor for the RedHawks. The senior, who had missed the previous three games with a leg injury, tracked down two rebounds in just over nine minutes of work.
The RedHawks return to action Saturday when they meet Brenau (Ga.) in their second game of the Bethel University Classic. Tipoff is set for Noon in the Crisp Center in McKenzie, Tenn.
