SAVANNAH, Ga. - The Lane College Dragons made history Tuesday night, grinding out a 62-58 road victory over Savannah State University at Tiger Arena to secure the winningest season in program history.
With the victory, Lane improves to 19-5 overall and 18-5 in SIAC play, setting a new standard for wins in a single season.
Lane controlled the tempo early, jumping out to a 16-12 lead after the first quarter and extending the advantage to 31-21 at halftime. The Dragons' defense set the tone, forcing 30 Savannah State turnovers and converting them into 27 points. Lane never trailed in the contest.
Lauren Lain led the way with 16 points, attacking the paint and knocking down key mid-range shots in the fourth quarter to halt Savannah State's momentum. Alexis Rowe added 12 points, including a clutch steal and three-point play in the final 30 seconds that stretched the lead to two possessions. Dyani Bernstine posted a double-double with 12 points and a dominant 15 rebounds, anchoring Lane's 46-39 advantage on the glass and scoring on several key put-backs.
Savannah State made its push in the third quarter, outscoring Lane 20-16 to cut the deficit to six entering the fourth. The Tigers trimmed the margin to three late in the game, but timely baskets from Lain and a dagger three-pointer from Kamil Washum with just over three minutes remaining gave the Dragons breathing room.
Lane shot 31.5 percent from the field but made up for it with relentless rebounding and defensive pressure, tallying 17 steals and 25 second-chance points. The Dragons also held Savannah State to just 1-of-8 shooting from beyond the arc.
When the final buzzer sounded, the significance was clear — this group etched its name in the record books. The 19th win of the season marks the most victories in school history, a testament to the team's resilience, depth, and defensive identity.
Lane will look to carry the momentum forward as postseason play approaches, now firmly established as the winningest team to ever wear the Blue and White.