STAUNTON, VA -- Allye Woodruff and Tanaesha Ellison combined for 46 points as the William Peace women's basketball team topped Mary Baldwin 60-50 in its USA South opener on Friday, Nov. 17, at the Physical Activity Center.

William Peace secured its first conference win under first-year Head Coach Lori Drake. The Pacers are off to a fast start this season, winning two of their first three games.

Woodruff led the way with 24 points and Ellison recorded a double-double with 22 points and 15 rebounds. Nautica Smiley added seven points and nine rebounds while Ja'Naisja Baker contributed six points, six rebounds and five assists.

Ellison scored 11 second-half points as the Pacers built a 28-21 halftime lead. Woodruff took over in the third period, scoring 12 points on four three-pointers to stretch the lead to 19 at 52-33. The Pacers outscored the Squirrels 24-12 in the period.

The Squirrels rallied in the fourth quarter but got no closer than the final margin. Aryauna Brent and Imari Knight each scored 14 points for the hosts. 

THE BASICS

• Final score:

  • William Peace 60, Mary Baldwin 50

• Record: William Peace 2-1, (USAS 1-0), Mary Bladwin 1-3, (USAS 0-1)

• Location: Staunton, VA 

KEY POINTS

• The Pacers started the game off strong, outshooting the Squirrels 14-10 in the first quarter. 

• The Pacers led 28-21 at halftime.

• The Pacers outscored the Squirrels 24-12 in the third period to expand their halftime lead to 19 points. 

• The Pacers were outscored 17-8 in the fourth period.

PACERS' TOP PERFORMERS

•  Allye Woodruff  led the Pacers with 24 points, while Tanaesha Ellison  followed with 22 points.

• Tanaesha Ellison collected four steals against the Squirrels. 

• Ja'Naisja Baker collected five assists for the Pacers. 

• Tanaesha Ellison posted 15 rebounds for the Pacers, while Nautica Smiley  followed with 9 rebounds. 

FOR THE OPPONENT

• Aryauna Brent and lmari Knight both led the Squirrels with 14 points. 
   

NEXT GAME

The Pacers will travel to Buena Vista, Va., on Saturday, Nov. 18, to face the Southern Virginia University Knights. This is the Pacers' second conference matchup of the season. Tip-off is 2 p.m.

For the latest news and updates from William Peace University Athletics, please visit: gopeacepacers.com, Facebook, or follow the Pacers on Instagram and Twitter at @gopeacepacers.