Philander Smith Triumphs Over Dillard with a Strong Second Half*

LITTLE ROCK– In an exhilarating matchup at Mims Gymnasium on December 4, 2025, Philander Smith College secured a decisive 67-48 victory against Dillard University. The game was characterized by Philander Smith's superior shooting and strategic play, which allowed them to pull away significantly in the second half.

The first quarter set the tone with Philander Smith taking an early lead, scoring 16 points to Dillard's 10. Both teams exhibited solid defense, but Philander Smith's accuracy in shooting began to shine through. By halftime, Philander Smith maintained a steady lead, heading into the break with a 28-21 advantage.

The third quarter proved pivotal, as Philander Smith extended their lead by outscoring Dillard 19-9. Their offensive surge was led by standout performances from Ashlyn Kimble and Miracle Thomas. Kimble, playing 39 minutes, was instrumental with 20 points, hitting 9 of her 15 field goal attempts, including 2 three-pointers. Thomas contributed significantly off the bench with 15 points, showcasing precision from beyond the arc by making both her three-point attempts.

In contrast, Dillard struggled to find their rhythm, shooting only 31% from the field and a mere 20% from three-point range. Despite their efforts, including a notable performance by reserve player Kayla Terry, who led her team with 13 points and nine rebounds, Dillard could not overcome Philander Smith's defensive and offensive strategies.

Philander Smith demonstrated a more balanced team effort, with solid defensive rebounds totaling 28 and a collaborative 12 assists, compared to Dillard's 7 assists. They also excelled in perimeter shooting, making 44.4% of their three-point attempts, a stark contrast to Dillard's struggles from outside.

The game concluded with Philander Smith solidifying their lead in the fourth quarter, scoring 20 points to Dillard's 18, sealing their victory with a final score of 67-48. The win was witnessed by an enthusiastic crowd of 250 attendees, who enjoyed the competitive spirit and skilled play displayed by both teams.

Overall, Philander Smith's victory was a testament to their effective teamwork, shooting accuracy, and strategic execution, marking a significant win in their season.

-Bleu Devils-