MISENHEIMER, N.C. - William Peace rallied from a 16 point second half deficit to defeat Pfeiffer 63-62 in the opening round of the USA South Tournament on February 24 at Merner Gym.
The Pacers trailed 33-20 at halftime and faced a 46-34 deficit entering the fourth quarter before delivering a 29 point final period.
Zikira Henderson connected on a go ahead three pointer with 40 seconds remaining to give Peace a 61-60 lead. Following two Pfeiffer free throws, Zakoreya Davis scored in the paint with 10 seconds left to secure the lead. On the final play, Alayna Randolph deflected the initial pass, throwing off Pfeiffer's rhythm before the Falcons' last second three point attempt fell short.
Davis led the bench effort with 15 points, 13 of which came in the fourth quarter. Amiah Griffin recorded 17 points and 12 rebounds for a double double, while Randolph added 10 points.
"I couldn't be more proud of our team tonight." Head Coach Annalee Bollinger said after the game. "To come back on the road after being down 16 takes an incredible amount of heart and toughness. We've talked all year about the power we have when we play together and for each other, and that was on full display. We're grateful for the opportunity to keep this journey going and excited for the challenge ahead as we prepare for another road test."
Peace now turns its attention to Brevard in the semifinal round. The two teams split the regular season series, with each program winning on its home floor. The Pacers will travel to their head coach's alma mater for the USA South Tournament semifinals on Thursday, February 28.