AIKEN, S.C. – The last home game for Porsha Martin was a memorable one as the University of South Carolina Aiken women's basketball team defeated UNC Pembroke 72-58 Saturday evening.

The Pacers are now 11-17 overall, including a 9-10 mark in league play.

Leading the way for head coach Mike Brandt's team was Courtney Mealing, who poured in a team-best 19 points. Mariah Durian added 13 markers while Amaura Brandt and Mackenzie Reese each hit for 12 points. Kate Duff came off the bench to hit for 10.

Martin netted just four points, but grabbed a game-high 12 rebounds, dished out four assists and had a game-high two steals in 32 minutes of work.

USC Aiken found itself trailing in the first half by four at the 7:59 mark, 22-18. However, a three-point bucket by Durian sparked an 11-3 run to end the first period for Brandt's squad.

During the run, Mealing connected for an old-fashioned three-point play, making the score 24-22. Durian added a lay-up while Duff made an inside shot before connecting on the ensuing free throw.  UNC Pembroke scored the final three points of the half, but neither team could find the bottom of the basket during the last 1:50.

The Braves took a three-point lead with just 12:09 to play in the game on a three-point play, but Brandt's team stepped up.

Martin sliced to the lane and scored her first basket of the night off a pass from Duff. Brandt buried a three-point basket off a sensational pass by Duff, giving the Pacers a 45-43 lead.

After USC Aiken fell behind by one at 46-45, Martin's second basket put the Pacers in front for good. Reese followed it up with a three on the wing before Mealing stepped back, canning another jumper from downtown for a seven-point edge, 53-46.

Mealing and Durian each hit baskets, giving the home team an 11-point lead while completing the 12-0 run.

Brandt's squad pushed the margin to 15 on another deep shot by Mealing with 2:55 to play as the Pacers cruised to the 14-point victory.

USC Aiken will play this coming week in the Peach Belt Conference Tournament. The Pacers take on North Georgia at 3 p.m., Thursday.

Peach Belt Bracket