MONTGOMERY, Ala. - UT Southern started the afternoon with confidence and control, but a late third-quarter swing and a cold offensive fourth period proved costly as the Firehawks dropped a 77–64 road contest at Faulkner on Saturday.

UT Southern Started Fast
UT Southern opened with an 8–0 run behind early execution and strong defensive pressure. Ramie Reid drilled a three to start the scoring, Taya Totten added a three of her own, and Reid finished a layup moments later to force an early timeout. The Firehawks led by as many as eight in the opening quarter before Faulkner closed the period ahead 29–22.

Second Quarter Push Keeps It Close
The Firehawks tightened defensively in the second quarter, holding the hosts to just 11 points. UT Southern created turnovers and made timely trips to the free-throw line, with contributions from Ashley Dickey, Mia Jones, and Mary Claire Pike helping narrow the gap. Dickey's aggressive downhill attacks and Pike's late three sent UTS into the half trailing just 40–39.

Back-and-Forth Third Quarter
UT Southern briefly regained momentum early in the third. Reid hit another three, Dickey followed with a triple, and Silkiari Vazquez-Troche converted a driving layup to pull the Firehawks within two at 47–45. A stretch of empty possessions allowed Faulkner to rebuild its advantage, capitalizing on second-chance baskets and perimeter shooting. UTS trailed 61–57 heading into the final quarter.

Fourth Quarter Slump
The Firehawks fought throughout the fourth quarter but struggled to convert offensively, scoring just seven points in the frame. Dickey finished a late basket and Reid added a layup with just over three minutes remaining, but Faulkner answered each time and pulled away down the stretch.

Firehawk Highlights
UT Southern was led by several strong individual efforts:

• Ashley Dickey — 21 points, 3 rebounds, 4 steals

• Silkiari Vazquez-Troche — 12 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals

• Ramie Reid — 12 points, 6 rebounds

• Taya Totten — 10 points

Team Comparison by Quarter

Next Up
UT Southern returns home to the Curry Athletic Complex on Thursday, December 4, hosting William Carey in SSAC play.