By MacKenzie Tuttle for berryvikngs.com

JACKSON, Miss. - - Led by Valerie McLure's career-high 20 points, the Berry College women's basketball team defeated Sewanee, 67-64, on Friday night. The win advanced the Vikes to the Southern Athletic Association semifinals.

McLure's 20 points led the BC offense. She was 9-of-14 shooting, but also converted 2 clutch free throws at game's end.

Sewanee's Kayla Sewell made a three-pointer with 11 seconds left to tie the game at 64. The Tigers then fouled McLure, who made her only 2 free throws in the game for the decisive points. Sewanee had a potential game-tying shot, but it rimmed out.

The win improved BC to 18-8 overall. The loss dropped the Tigers to 12-13.

Although Sewanee jumped to an early, 5-0, lead, the Vikings gradually gained momentum throughout the first half and led, 27-21, going into halftime.

BC held their lead for the majority of the second half before the Tigers' late rally.

Two other players added double digit points in the win for the Vikings: Zarriah Pierce and Chanlir Segarra.

Pierce had 19 points for Berry. She was 6-of-15 shooting, and sank 5 three-point shots on the night. Segarra scored 14 points for the Vikes. She was 4-of-10 shooting and dished 8 assists.

For the Tigers, Casey Hassett posted 17 points. Hassett was 8-of-15 shooting, as well as 1-for-1 from the free throw line.

The Vikings shot 40-percent (23-57) to the Tiger's 37-percent (25-66).

"This was a good first round win for us," said Berry Head Coach Stephanie Dunn.  "It's tough to beat a team three times in one season, but we prevailed tonight. Valerie McLure and Zarriah Pierce played great on both ends. Megan Casey was solid on defense for us as well."

Berry will compete against either Rhodes or Centre in their next game on Saturday, February 28, in Jackson, Mississippi.​