FORT MYERS, Fla. - Jazmin Hill led the charge as the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville women's basketball team opened the FGCU Classic with a win over Longwood University 62-53 Friday evening from Alico Arena.

"We thought it was important to come out today, be aggressive and make a statement," said SIUE Head Coach Amanda Levens.

Longwood scored the game's first four points, but the Cougars turned up the heat defensively holding the Lancers scoreless for the next nine minutes with strong, team defense.

SIUE forced a season-high 32 turnovers by cutting into passing lanes and playing the type of defense Coach Levens expected coming into the game.

"Forcing turnovers was definitely a focal point. It was a matter of being disciplined and playing good team defense. I thought our team did a good job of that tonight," added Levens.

During the Lancers' drought, SIUE, now 10-17 on the year, claimed a 15-4 lead by taking care of the basketball and hitting timely shots, highlighted by Courtney Kenner banking in a three-pointer.

The balanced scoring continued for the Cougars as three players finished in double figures, led by 18 from the freshman Hill. Hill connected on 3 of 8 from behind the arc.

"Jazmin hit some big ones late when we really needed it. Give her credit for hanging in there and wanting the ball late in the game," said Levens.

The Lancers, 7-21 on the season, closed the gap late in the opening half but the Cougars were able to maintain a slim one-point advantage 25-24 heading into halftime.

Longwood carried its late momentum into the second half and reclaimed the lead 29-27 after a layup by Bria White.

The Cougars quickly answered and evened the score 29-29 before taking over for good following a pair of free throws from sophomore Raven Berry.

SIUE increased its lead to as many as 12 in the second half and finished the game strong for the 62-53 victory.

Berry and Kenner joined Hill in double-figure scoring for SIUE adding 13 and 10 points, respectively.

Krystal Garrison and Crystal Smith each scored 13 to lead the Lancers.

The Cougars will continue the FGCU Classic Saturday evening with a game against Seattle University at 4:15 pm.

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