Piedmont’s women’s basketball team was powerless in the second half in a 64-48 loss to Berea at the Cave Arena on Saturday afternoon. The Mountaineers held Piedmont to just 21 points in the final 20 minutes in the second half, despite a 1-point lead at the break.

Nakiyah Washington proved why she was the top lion even when the Lady Lions weren’t coming in hot. Washington became Piedmont’s all-time-leading scorer on Saturday, as the senior from Adairsville, Georgia, turned in a career-best performance. All of Washington’s 15 points were scored in the first half, during which she made seven of nine free throws.

“Nak being the all-time leading scorer in program history is no small feat,” said assistant women’s basketball coach Christian Buckmire. “A record previously held by another Piedmont great, Amari Price, and I think it speaks to her scoring ability and the consistency and longevity to play at a high level. She’s very talented but also very skilled, and when she’s locked in and brings energy, she leads our team offensively and defensively.”

Washington has maintained excellence, dedication and commitment while playing for Piedmont, which is a towering achievement. Washington’s collegiate career is one who is striving to dominate the game. 

She is still adding to the total, given the fact that she still has an extra year of playing eligibility because of the pandemic. With Lebron James breaking the NBA’s all-time scoring record, and a week later Nakiyah Washington breaking Piedmont’s all-time scoring record, could she be considered the G.O.A.T.?