The Chattanooga Mocs women's basketball team suffered a narrow 48-46 defeat against Tennessee Tech on Thursday night, in a game that was defined by stifling defense and a dramatic finish. Despite a strong defensive effort that forced 29 turnovers, the Mocs were unable to overcome rebounding issues and foul trouble, ultimately falling to the Golden Eagles in the closing seconds.

A Clash of Defensive Titans

A Slugfest from the Opening Tip

The game was a defensive battle from the opening tip, with both teams exchanging blows in a tightly contested first quarter. Chattanooga managed to carry a narrow 17-16 lead into the second quarter, thanks in part to a timely three-pointer from Izzy McPherson as time expired.

Anya Leads the Mocs' Charge

In the second quarter, the Mocs began to lean on graduate transfer Brooke Anya, using the Washington, D.C. native's size and strength to get the Golden Eagles into early foul trouble. Anya scored nine of her eventual 12 points in the first half, helping Chattanooga build a 26-17 lead at one point. However, a late push by Tennessee Tech would erase the Mocs' advantage, and the teams headed into halftime with Chattanooga holding a narrow 29-28 lead.

Offensive Struggles in the Third

The Mocs struggled to find their offensive rhythm in the third quarter, allowing the Golden Eagles to build a 40-34 lead. UTC managed to score just five points in the frame, a season-low for the team.

A Dramatic Fourth-Quarter Comeback

Desperate for a spark, the Mocs turned to their underclassmen duo of Gianna Corbitt and Caia Elisaldez to lead the charge. Clutch shots from the pair quickly tied the game at 46-46 with just 1:37 remaining on the clock. However, the Mocs were unable to capitalize on a potential go-ahead three-pointer from Sigrun Olafsdottir, and Tennessee Tech seized the opportunity to take the lead with just 1.7 seconds left on the clock. A last-second heave by Elisaldez fell short, and the Golden Eagles escaped with a 48-46 victory.

Defensive Standouts and Individual Performances

Despite the heartbreaking loss, the Mocs showcased their defensive prowess, forcing 29 turnovers and holding the Golden Eagles to just 48 points. Brooke Anya led the way for Chattanooga with a season-high 12 points off the bench, while Elisaldez and Corbitt added 10 and 9 points, respectively. Corbitt also recorded a career-high five steals, the most by a UTC freshman since Addie Grace Porter's five-steal performance against Murray State in 2021.

Looking Ahead to NC Central

The Mocs will now hit the road for the first time this season, traveling to Durham, North Carolina, to take on NC Central on Monday, November 11. Fans can tune in to Will Poindexter's radio coverage on 96.1 FM/100.3 FM/1070 AM, as the game will not be available for streaming.