SALEM, West Virginia - After a tough loss for their mid-week game, the Salem women's basketball team was looking for a chance to get back on track as they played host to the Ohio Dominican Panthers. Salem had their work cut out for them, but they were triumphant with a hard fought 74-72 win over the Panthers. 

In the first period, Salem found themselves in a tight game from the jump as both teams traded baskets early on. Salem played well on the interior all day, and Jayla Atkins typified that with 2 key layups on the interior towards the end of the period. The Tigers maintained their lead, and went into the second up 18-15. 

Next, in the second quarter, Salem pushed their advantage and grew their advantage to as much as 11 thanks to a big shot from Anna Machytkova. However, the Panthers roared back with a surge of their own, and the Tigers' lead was just 37-35 going into the half. 

To open the half, Ohio Dominican struck first, and even took a slim lead early on. However, the strong play in the paint came in handy again for the Tigers. Kirsten Cross earned the lead back for the Tigers, and Aina Maynou pushed it up to 56-48 at the end of the third with a three pointer with seconds to go in the quarter. 

For the 4th, Ohio Dominican was not about to go away without a fight. They battled back, and tied the game in the final moments. An Elena Pericic jumper to win the game at the horn fell short, and we had extracurricular basketball on the docket with the game level at 64-64. 

For the overtime period, Elena Pericic took control of the game for Salem with some great outside shooting. Ohio Dominican brought the game back within a basket, but Liliani Krause came in clutch and iced the game away multiple free throws down the stretch. The game would conclude with Salem on top 74-72. 

Salem certainly had some noteworthy performances on the stats sheet. They had 4 players in double figures in scoring. They were led by Elena Pericic with 19 points and 7 rebounds. Anna Machytkova was just behind her with 15 points and 5 rebounds. Liliani Krause added 12 points and 8 rebounds. Lastly, Jayla Atkins chipped in 12 points alongside 7 rebounds. 

With a dramatic home win this afternoon, Salem should be energized as they head into their last home game of this homestand. They are set to take on Virginia Union at 2 PM on January 9th in T. Edward Davis Gymnasium.