RALEIGH, N.C. - William Peace built an early lead and held off a late push to earn a 61-53 USA South road victory over Meredith on Wednesday evening.
The Pacers came out firing in the opening quarter, shooting 58.8 percent from the field and knocking down eight three-pointers to take a tremendous 28-9 lead after one. Meredith responded over the next two periods, cutting the deficit to three late in the third quarter.
Peace entered the fourth quarter ahead 46-41 and found itself in another tight battle down the stretch. Meredith pulled within two at 53-51 with just over two minutes remaining, but the Pacers executed in key moments. A three-pointer from Jess Worthey pushed the lead back to five, and clutch free throws in the final seconds sealed the win.
Ensley Perry led the way with 14 points, including three made three-pointers. Zikira Henderson added 13 points and seven assists, while Worthey finished with 13 points off the bench. Alayna Randolph chipped in nine points and five rebounds as Peace connected on 11 three-pointers and shot 80 percent from the free throw line.
With the win, William Peace improves to 13-9 overall and 10-5 in conference play. The Pacers return home Saturday for their Play4Kay game against Greensboro at 12 p.m.
