It was a tough task – opening the season against #11 Rutgers with Tasha Humphrey unavailable. But the Lady Dogs, paced by 18 points each from Janese Hardrick and freshman Ashley Houts, found a way to win 78-69 in the State Farm Tip-Off Classic.

Just as in last year’s season opener against Baylor, the Lady Dogs saw a second half lead slip away. Rutgers grabbed the lead with less than four minutes remaining. But this year Georgia responded with some timely baskets and solid defense. Hardrick was outstanding from the free throw line in the final minutes.

The Lady Dogs will have their home opener on Wednesday night at 7:00 against North Carolina A&T.