Parker Leads Bishops to First League Win, 75-58, over Mary Baldwin

KeChae Parker
KeChae Parker

Rocky Mount, N.C. - Senior KeChae Parker poured in 19 points and grabbed nine rebounds to lead her Battling Bishop women's basketball team to a 75-58 win over Mary Baldwin University on Sunday in Everett Gym. The USA South victory is Wesleyan's first of the season after the team dropped its league opener on Saturday to Ferrum by a 53-44 score.

Versus MBU on Sunday, Wesleyan carried a slim 30-24 lead into the second half before erupting for 32 points in the third quarter alone. The Bishops knocked down 12-of-20 attempts in the period, led by Parker's 12 points in the first five minutes of play. NCWC led 62-40 entering the fourth quarter, allowing head coach Artina Trader to empty her bench down the stretch.

In addition to Parker, Kayla Johnson chipped in 15 points, five rebounds, and three steals, while fellow freshman Javana Jones hauled in eight rebounds. Junior Cheria Turrentine also turned in a solid performance with eight points, three assists, and three steals. For Baldwin, Aayana Nedd tallied 19 points and five assists.

As a team, NCWC out-rebound MBU 63-40 on the day and created 32 points off of turnovers.

Previously on Saturday, the Bishops kicked off USA South play against Ferrum College. Both teams struggled from the floor, with Ferrum forging a 20-18 advantage at the half and taking an eventual 36-33 lead into the fourth quarter. The difference in the game then came at the free throw line where the Panthers notched 10 of their points down the stretch, securing the 9-point victory.

Jones and Parker reached double-digits for NCWC with 11 and 10 points, respectively. Zarkia Mattox paced Ferrum with a game-high 18 points.

Wesleyan (2-4, 1-1 USA South) continues USA South play on Friday when the Bishops host Averett University. Tip-off is slated for 5:30pm in Everett Gym.