LYNCHBURG, Va. - In an electrifying finish, the Randolph College Women's Basketball edged Carolina University 60-59 on a last-second three-pointer by Taniya Jackson on Saturday evening.The victory improved Randolph's record to 4-1 on the season. 

"Wow..what a finish…what a game," said head coach Steven Lanpher. "The game of two halves."

Randolph struggled offensively in the first half, managing just 17 points across the opening two quarters. CarolinaU jumped out to a 19-12 lead in the first period. The Wildcats found themselves in deeper trouble in the second quarter, scoring only five points as the Bruins extended their advantage to 33-17 by halftime. Randolph's scoring woes were compounded by turnovers and missed opportunities from beyond the arc.

"We came out flat and lethargic and were dominated in the first half," said Lanpher. "CarolinaU is a very skilled and athletic squad who controlled tempo in the first half."

Randolph came alive in the second half, mounting an impressive comeback fueled by improved shooting and defensive intensity. The Wildcats dominated the third quarter, outscoring CarolinaU 19-9 while shooting 50% from the field. Maddie Pabon's two three-pointers and Jackson's steady scoring cut the deficit to six points heading into the fourth. 

"I thought we responded defensively in the third quarter, holding them to nine points and cutting the deficit to single digits was so crucial," said Lanpher. "Lex, our first year post was tremendous with five blocks and four rebounds and one steal,Taniya played her best game of her career to date. She was so efficient with her shot making and leading us tonight."

"Really happy for Taniya! She has been a back-up point guard and has continued to work on her leadership and game," said Lanpher. "Great to see her hard work pay off."

In the final frame, Randolph exploded for 24 points, shooting 56.3% from the floor and locking down defensively in key moments. The Wildcats erased a double-digit deficit, culminating in Jackson's dramatic buzzer beater three-pointer with seconds remaining to seal the victory.

The team was led by Jackson's 17 points and clutch shooting. Kylie Stark added 13 points, while Maddie Pabon chipped in with seven, including two critical three-pointers in the third quarter that sparked the comeback.Teniyah Crenshaw-Patterson finished with seven points and seven rebounds.

"We celebrate this hard-fought win but we need to quickly refocus ourselves and prepare for our first ODAC conference game," said Lanpher.

The 'Cats are back on the court when they head to Ferrum on Tuesday to open ODAC play at 5 p.m.