Wingate, N.C.----The Wingate University Bulldogs hosted its seventh annual Future Bulldog Day Monday morning, welcoming 958 fifth-grade students from local schools inside Cuddy Arena as the Bulldogs downed Piedmont International 86-62 in an exhibition contest. Future Bulldog Day is an event for local fifth-grade students to visit the Wingate campus for a day and enjoy virtual tours, motivational speakers and basketball.
THOUGHTS FROM ANN HANCOCK
"Future Bulldog Day is always one on the best days of the year for us. There are so many learning opportunities for everyone involved. For the fifth graders, it is often the first time most of them have been on a college campus to experience an athletic event and to hear what education can afford them later in life. Hopefully, their eyes are opened to a world of new experiences through education. Today, the speakers focused on the importance of grades and dreaming big, that if you work hard enough you can do anything you want in life."
"For us, the game atmosphere is incredibly special. There really is nothing like playing in front of a screaming crowd. It is also helpful in making our players realize that they are role models for the young people. It was not that long ago that they were dreaming of playing college athletics. A lot of work goes into making this day happen. We could not do it without the help and support of numerous departments and individuals across campus. Thanks to all who make it possible."
THOUGHTS FROM TELIYAH JETER
"Today's game was a total success. It's not every day we have a packed gym, but having a packed gym of kids there makes it much better because they give off so much positive energy. Being able to be a role model to the kids and have a chance to influence them was the best part. And it's always nice to get a win!"
ABOUT THE GAME
On the court, the Bulldogs raced out to a 20-0 lead five minutes in and never looked back. Wingate led by as many as 33 in the fourth quarter. The 'Dogs shot 50 percent from the field, hitting three-of-nine shots from beyond the arc while dominating the boards, holding a 51-20 rebounding advantage and 23-2 edge in second-chance points. Wingate converted 19 turnovers into 17 points, while holding a 52-20 edge in points in the paint.
Courtney Robinson led the Wingate offense with 16 points, adding two assists and two steals while going eight-for-13 from the field.
Danasia Witherspoon added 12 points and seven boards on five-of-seven shooting, while
Jasmine Stephen contributed 10 points, four rebounds and two assists, also going five-for-seven from the field.
Caroline Averette had eight points, five boards and three assists, while
Morgan Simmons had seven points and a game-high four assists, adding two steals.
UP NEXT
The Bulldogs have nearly two weeks off, as Wingate University begins final exams this week. The 'Dogs return to action next Saturday, Dec. 15, traveling to Lincoln Memorial at 2 p.m. Wingate hosts Catawba Wednesday, Dec. 19 at 2 p.m.
