Drawhorn drops 27 points to assist in conference win over Broward

The Pioneers of Indian River State College (2-1) picked up a hard fought win versus undefeated Broward College (3-0) Tuesday night.

The first quarter had its ups and downs as both team battled to find their offensive rhythm. The Pioneers drove aggressively and started the night at the free throw early in quarter while Broward let their first three ball hit. The teams traded baskets and the IRSC was down by just one point as the buzzer sounded to end the first quarter 9-10 in favor of the Seahawks. The second quarter was not much different as the River only allowed Broward to hit one three point shot. Sophomore Edley Drawhorn put up eight of the Pioneers fourteen points to give the River the one point advantage to end the second quarter 14-13, bringing the halftime score to an even draw at 23 points a piece.

The Pioneers defense became an issue for Broward who was not able to get any open looks for the three point shot that they rely so strongly on. Broward who usually averages nine made three point shots a game currently was limited to two at the half. In the third quarter the River did not let up defensively and continued the Seahawks struggles forcing them out of their offensive rhythm. Drawhorn again stepped up contributing eight points and freshman Kiara Cadore finally sparked adding nine points helping to lift the Pioneer over the Seahawks 19-13 heading into the final quarter. With the score now 42-36 at the start of the final minutes of the game, the Rivers defensive efforts tightened but created some errors to send Broward to the free throw line. But the River answered back and Drawhorn added another nine points to help the Pioneers pull off a 59-50 win.

"We are so proud of this teams defensive effort tonight", said Diana Couch the Pioneers head coach. "They took the game plan and embraced it. We knew if we had any chance of being in this game with Broward we had to limit their shooting from the perimeter, but this team went above and beyond in that plan. It was fun watching them function together defensively and then watching them reap the reward offensively. Edley Drawhorn was so focused and took this team on her back tonight, yet it was jsut so great seeing we had 21 assists as a team as well." 

Edley Drawhorn led the Pioneers in scoring with 27 points, 7 rebounds and freshman Kiara Cadore was the only other Pioneer in double digits with 12 points. Freshman Joseline Ramos contributed 6 assists along with Cyann Fox's 4 to help their teammates get to the rim.  

The River (3-1) is now in a three way tie for first to end the first round of conference play. Next up will be a re-match versus Miami Dade (3-1) at home Saturday at 2:00pm.