WISE - - Host UVA Wise built a 17-point first half lead before holding off Mars Hill 77-70 in South Atlantic Conference women's basketball action at the Prior Center Tuesday. Junior guard Nia Vanzant netted a season-high 27 points while tying a career-high in made field goals with 11 in the win.

UVA Wise (1-4, 1-2 SAC) seemingly had the game on ice when Jaymi Golden drilled a 3-pointer with 3:19 to play to put her squad up 71-56.

Mars Hill (0-5, 0-3 SAC) had other ideas. The Lions would then go on a 14-2 scoring spurt to cut the deficit to three with 42 seconds remaining. Mars Hill run was sparked by Zanah Boyd who netted five of her team-high 24 points during the stretch.

The Lions forced a five second violation on an inbounds pass that was followed by a technical foul on UVA Wise Head Coach Jamie Cluesman that led to a four-point sequence allowing the game to get within three points.

Senior center Meg Crawford would ice the game at the free throw line for the Cavaliers as she drained a trio of charity shots down the stretch to help seal the 77-70 triumph.

Vanzant's big night continued a strong start to the season for the Murfreesboro, Tenn. product who has now scored in double-figures in each of the season's first five games.

The guard started fast, netting nine points on 4-of-6 shooting in the first period. A quarter later, she added six points thanks to a pair of made 3-pointers. On the night, Vanzant sank 4-of-5 3-point attempts, finishing one made triple shy of a career-high.

While Crawford's free throws late preserved the victory, it was her play throughout the game that helped get her team in a position to win.

The Blountville, Tenn. product tied a career-high with 15 rebounds while adding a season-best six blocked shots. Crawford finished a point shy of a double-double, due to a 7-for-8 showing at the free throw line.

Mars Hill was able to inch back in the game by forcing UVA Wise turnovers. The Cavs turned the ball over 25 times which led to 24 points for the Lions. Mars Hill also had a strong showing at the stripe, making 16-of-17 free throws.

Peyton Sams dished out a season-high six assists and Sable Burnside netted her first collegiate points in the winning effort. As a team, the Cavs made a season high eight 3-pointers; Mackenzie King added two 3-pointers, with Caitlyn Ross and Golden making one each.

With the win, UVA Wise remains undefeated all-time against Mars Hill since the two schools have joined the SAC.

Next up, Tusculum visits the Prior Center Saturday for a 2 p.m. tip. Fans can watch the game live on www.uvawisecavs.com