PULASKI, Tenn. – Tennessee Southern turned a strong first half into a wire-to-wire conference victory on Tuesday evening, defeating Mobile 79–65 at the Curry Athletic Complex.
UT Southern set the tone early, opening the game with energy on both ends of the floor. Ashley Dickey sparked the offense in the opening quarter, scoring nine points in the period as the Firehawks built a 19–14 lead. Lauren Smith and Ramie Reid helped control the glass, limiting second-chance opportunities while UT Southern steadily found its rhythm offensively.
The Firehawks seized full control in the second quarter with a decisive run. Silkiari Vazquez-Troche orchestrated the offense, repeatedly setting up teammates for high-percentage looks. Dickey knocked down a three-pointer and converted at the free-throw line, while Reid scored inside and finished a three-point play. UT Southern outscored Mobile 26–10 in the quarter, turning a five-point edge into a commanding 45–24 halftime lead.
Mobile attempted to respond coming out of the break, but UT Southern answered every push. Reid continued to finish through contact, Vazquez-Troche added timely baskets and assists, and Smith dominated the paint with rebounds and put-backs. Despite a tighter third quarter, the Firehawks maintained a comfortable cushion heading into the final period.
In the fourth quarter, UT Southern closed the door with steady execution. Vazquez-Troche scored seven points in the final frame and repeatedly attacked the lane, while Smith added key baskets and rebounds to halt any momentum. Dickey capped her night with late free throws as the Firehawks secured the conference win.
Dickey led UT Southern with 22 points, 11 rebounds and five assists. Smith posted a strong all-around performance with 17 points and a team-high 13 rebounds. Vazquez-Troche finished with 14 points, seven assists and four steals, while Reid added 15 points, seven rebounds and a block.
Tennessee Southern shot 49.1 percent from the field and 45.5 percent from three-point range, while forcing 23 turnovers that turned into 29 points.
The Firehawks return to action on January 3, 2026, when they host Bethel in non-conference play.
FOLLOW THE FIREHAWKS
Stay up to date with all the latest action from UTS Athletics! Follow the Firehawks on social media:
Twitter: @utsathletics
Instagram: @utsouthernathletics
Facebook: @UT Southern Firehawks
Don't miss a moment — Go Firehawks!
