Grace College senior Juaneice Jackson set the program’s career scoring record Saturday during a win at Taylor (File photo provided by Grace College Sports Information Department)

UPLAND, Ind. – With 6:50 remaining in the first half Saturday, Grace College senior Juaneice Jackson sliced into the lane, received a pass and rose up for a record-breaking jump shot.

With her 11th point of the game, Jackson increased her career total to 1,634 points to break the Grace women’s basketball career scoring record of 1,632 held by Tracie Mezera (2000-04).

She went on to score 16 points in the first half and 25 in the game to lead the Lady Lancers to a 73-72 victory over Taylor.

“Coming in as a freshman, I didn’t even think about breaking the scoring record or any record at that,” Jackson said. “It’s just been a blessing being at Grace and putting on that uniform. This accomplishment helps me to know that hard work does pay off. I’m thankful for my teammates and especially my awesome coach for allowing me to play at Grace.”

Midway into the first half, Grace used a 9-0 run to claim a double-digit lead over the Trojans (8-14; 3-7 Crossroads League).

Taylor managed to close the gap to single digits by halftime, but the Lady Lancers (10-12; 6-4 CL) still held a 36-30 advantage at the break.

The second half was tightly contested with Grace leading by no more than six points over the final 20 minutes. The Trojans cut the deficit to one at 60-59 with 5:12 to play, but Gabby Bryant responded with a 3-pointer on Grace’s next possession to extend the lead to four.

Jackson then took over down the stretch for Grace, scoring the team’s final seven points in the last two minutes. She went 4-of-4 from the foul line in the final 16 seconds, and Taylor made a 3-pointer at the buzzer to make the final score close.

Jackson’s record-breaking day featured 25 points, six assists and three steals. It was the 31st game in which she has topped 20 points and the 16th time she has scored 25 or more.

“JJ [Jackson] has grown every year she’s been at Grace. She’s been a joy to coach, and it’s a blessing to have her on the team,” said Grace head coach Scott Blum. “Her dedication and consistency the last few years have helped make this a sweet moment. This record could not have happened to a better person. I know JJ will always have a special place in her heart for Grace College.”

Jackson, a 5-7 southpaw senior guard, hails from Gary.

Jackson went on to say: “I want to thank everyone who has supported me. Thanks to my family, the Ryman’s who come watch me every game, and thanks to Coach Blum for pushing me and trusting me to be all I can be on the court, in school and most importantly in Christ.”

Grace hosts Indiana Wesleyan Wednesday at 7 p.m. and plays at Goshen College Saturday at 1 p.m. in a pair of Crossroads League games.