ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Interstat) — A dominant first-half performance by Navy, fueled by a near triple-double from sophomore guard Zanai Barnett-Gay, was nearly erased by a furious fourth-quarter rally from Longwood, but the Midshipmen held on for a 74-66 victory in a non-conference women’s basketball game Wednesday night at Alumni Hall.

Navy improved to 2-0 on the young season, while Longwood fell to 2-1.

The Midshipmen seized control of the game from the opening tip, racing out to a 26-12 lead after the first quarter. Barnett-Gay, a Glenn Dale, Maryland native, was the catalyst, scoring or assisting on many of Navy’s early baskets as the home team built a commanding 42-20 halftime advantage. The Lancers struggled mightily from the field in the first half, shooting just 20 points on a combination of cold shooting and Navy’s disruptive defense.

The third quarter saw Navy maintain its comfortable lead, entering the final period ahead 57-33. However, the game took a dramatic turn in the fourth quarter as Longwood unleashed a relentless full-court press. The Lancers exploded for 33 points in the final frame, forcing a flurry of Navy turnovers and chipping away at the once-insurmountable lead.

Longwood’s comeback bid was led by a balanced attack and capitalized on Navy’s ball-handling woes. The Lancers scored 18 points off 18 Navy turnovers and their pressure defense generated 12 steals. A late surge brought Longwood to within single digits in the final minutes, but the Midshipmen made enough crucial free throws down the stretch to secure the win.

Barnett-Gay finished with a game-high 25 points, 13 rebounds and six assists in 36 minutes of action. Zoe Mesuch of Clintondale, New York, provided crucial support with 15 points, while Julianna Almeida from North Arlington, New Jersey, added nine points, five rebounds and four assists. Navy’s interior defense was stout, recording five blocks, led by Kate Samson of Richmond, Virginia, who had eight points, eight rebounds and a block.

Longwood was led by Otaifo Esenabhalu of Valdosta, Georgia, who recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Jasmine Peaks from Palm Bay, Florida, also scored 10 points and dished out four assists. The Lancers shared the ball effectively, tallying 12 assists to Navy’s five, but were ultimately hampered by poor shooting, finishing just 27 of 77 from the floor and 4 of 22 from 3-point range.

Navy was more efficient offensively, shooting 45 percent from the field and making 13 of 18 free throws. The Midshipmen also won the battle for second-chance points despite being narrowly out-rebounded on the offensive glass.

The announced attendance at Alumni Hall in Cape Saint Claire was 448.

Navy’s next game is at home against Florida on Sunday. Longwood returns to action Friday to host Bluefield University.