LAKEWOOD, NJ- In its signature victory of the season thus far, the Georgian Court University basketball squad defeated the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, 67-61, Tuesday evening in the GCU Wellness Center. The victory marks the Lions' first vs. USP since defeating the Devils in Philadelphia back on February 1st, 2003 and ends a 12-game losing streak vs. the CACC rival.

Georgian Court got off to a fast start as they broke out to a 10-4 lead at 16:05. The Devils countered with a 14-2 run of their own and held an eight-point advantage at 7:26. USP would enter the half with a 33-30 lead.

The Lions started the second stanza with an 8-0 run. A lay-up by freshman Shaniqua Bacote (pictured) at 18:53 gave GCU a 34-33 lead, one they would not relinquish for the remainder of the contest.

Bacote compiled her first collegiate double-double in the game, leading GCU with a career-high 18 points and game-high 12 rebounds in 29 minutes. Three other Lions also reached double-digits in the scoring column, including junior Lauren Staats (17 points), freshman Shawna Wert (11 points) and freshman Dana Wert (11 points).

Local product, Caitlin Shaw (Jr., Eatontown, NJ), topped the Devils with 18 points in 34 minutes, including a dazzling 10-for-10 from the free-throw line. Seniors Erin Chesnavich (Pittston, PA) and Kaitlin DuRoss (Sea Isle City, NJ) dropped in 14 and 12 points, respectively, for USP.

The Lions carry a two-game winning streak up to Bloomfield College for its next contest this Saturday afternoon. The CACC affair tips off at 1:00 PM.