ORANGEBURG, S.C. (Interstat) — The Queens University of Charlotte Royals used a dominant first quarter to build a substantial lead and never looked back, defeating the South Carolina State Bulldogs 76-65 in a non-conference women’s basketball game Thursday night at SHM Memorial Center.

Brenae Jones-Grant powered the Royals’ offense with a game-high 28 points, while Ana Barreto added 15. The victory improved Queens’ record to 3-2 on the season, while South Carolina State fell to 2-3.

The game was decided early as the Royals exploded for a 19-9 advantage in the opening period. Queens stifled the Bulldogs’ offense, forcing difficult shots and capitalizing on the other end. The run was sparked by Jones-Grant, who won the opening tip and scored the game’s first points on a tip-in layup just 20 seconds in. Jermany Mapp and Barreto followed with 3-pointers, forcing a South Carolina State timeout less than two minutes into the game with Queens already leading 7-0.

Queens continued its offensive efficiency in the second quarter, pouring in 24 points to take a 43-29 lead into halftime. The Bulldogs showed signs of life in the second half, matching the Royals nearly point for point, but the first-quarter deficit proved too large to overcome.

South Carolina State was led by Shaunice Reed, who scored 21 points. Feliah Greer provided a spark off the bench with 11 points for the Bulldogs.

Statistically, the game was won from beyond the arc and at the free-throw line. Queens shot an efficient 10 for 23 from 3-point range, while South Carolina State managed just 8 of 27. The Royals also made the most of their opportunities at the charity stripe, converting 14 of 19 attempts compared to the Bulldogs’ 11 of 16.

Despite the loss, South Carolina State won the battle in the paint, outscoring Queens 28-26, and recorded more steals and blocks. However, the Bulldogs committed 14 turnovers, which the Royals converted into 15 points. Queens committed 11 turnovers.

The announced attendance was 150. Queens next travels to face South Carolina on Sunday. South Carolina State will look to rebound on the road at Charleston Southern on Saturday.