Fredericksburg, Va. (Nov. 20, 2016) – Averett University (2-1) posted 31 third quarter points to build a double-digit lead on its way to a 79-66 win over Alvernia University (0-3) Sunday afternoon in non-conference women's basketball action in the Hyatt Place Tournament hosted by Mary Washington.

Squared at 37 at the start of the second half, Averett built a small 49-44 margin until the five minute mark when it exploded with a 19-5 run to claim a 68-49 advantage entering the final 10 minutes.

The Crusaders responded with a 17-4 fourth quarter run, closing the gap 72-66 as Maddie Thornton drained her second consecutive 3 with two minutes remaining. Alvernia was able to get off four more shots before the conclusion of the game, but was unable overcome the deficit.

The Crusaders posted a smaller run late in the second quarter, cutting a 7 point Cougar lead to 1 at the half. Trailing 33-26, Maya Cooper put away a pair of layups, including converting on the 3-point play on the second to bring Alvernia within two. Marisa Armolt followed an Averett jumper with her first 3-pointer of the day, cutting the Cougars advantage to 1.

Alvernia outscored Averett 21-14 in the second quarter, and 17-11 in the fourth.

Freshman Armolt led the Crusaders with 12 points, going 2-for-6 from beyond the arc. Cooper added 11 points, while Kiersten Ingram knocked down 10 with a team-high 7 boards.

Averett was led by Samm Chandler with 32 points.

Alvernia continues its road stint on Tuesday, traveling to Wilkes University for non-conference action at 6:00 p.m.