PULASKI, Tenn. – The University of Tennessee Southern women's basketball stood their ground with the defending NAIA National champs in a 76-42 loss to #1 Thomas More on Saturday.

Aaryn Grace Lester led all scorers with 13 points. Mary Mackie pitched in 12. Halle Jones ripped down 10 boards.

UTS would trail by nine after the opening quarter. TMU would double up the Firehawks in the second to lead 39-23 at the break. The Saints would outscore the Firehawks 37-19 in the final half.

UTS would shoot 16 of 55 for 29% from the field. There would be one lead change and no ties.

NEXT UP

The Firehawks will travel to Columbia, Ky. to take on Lindsey Wilson on Thursday, January 19th. Tip-off is slated for 5:30 p.m.

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