PULASKI, Tenn. - Tennessee Southern put together a complete four-quarter performance Saturday afternoon at the Curry Athletic Complex, building an early cushion and maintaining control throughout on the way to a 71–58 home victory over Faulkner.
UT Southern set the tone immediately, opening the game with crisp ball movement and strong finishing at the rim. Lauren Smith sparked the early surge, scoring efficiently around the basket and from beyond the arc, while Ashley Dickey added points in transition and at the free-throw line. The Firehawks' defense limited second chances, allowing UT Southern to stretch the lead to 18–10 by the end of the first quarter.
The Firehawks took command in the second period, outscoring Faulkner 26–11. Smith continued her hot shooting, knocking down all four of her three-point attempts on the day and finishing with a game-high 24 points, a new career high. Her previous career best came last season against Oakwood when she scored 16 points. Dickey followed with 19 points, six rebounds, and steady perimeter play, while Taya Totten and Ramie Reid helped extend the margin at the foul line and on the glass. UT Southern went into halftime with a 44–21 advantage.
Faulkner made a push in the third quarter, but UT Southern responded with timely plays on both ends. Reid provided a strong interior presence, finishing with 13 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks, including several momentum-stopping defensive stands. Smith and Dickey each delivered baskets to keep the Firehawks comfortably in front heading into the final period.
In the fourth quarter, UT Southern closed the game with poise. Silkiari Vazquez-Troche directed the offense, recording 10 points and a team-high 10 assists while also collecting three steals. The Firehawks sealed the win at the free-throw line, finishing 19-of-21 from the stripe as a team.
UT Southern shot 48.9 percent from the field and 42.9 percent from three-point range, showcasing balanced offense and efficiency across the lineup.
The Firehawks return to action at home on December 16, hosting Mobile at 5:30 p.m. at the Curry Athletic Complex.
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