PULASKI, Tenn. - UT Southern opened Thursday night's SSAC matchup with one of its sharpest offensive quarters of the season, but William Carey countered with steady second-half runs to hand the Firehawks a 75–67 loss inside the Curry Athletic Complex.

First Quarter Surge

UT Southern came out firing, shooting 73 percent in the opening frame. Ramie Reid scored inside for the first Firehawk basket, followed by attacking drives from Ashley Dickey and strong interior play from Lauren Smith. Silkiari Vazquez-Troche directed the early rhythm, assisting on multiple baskets and getting to the free-throw line.

After trailing early, UT Southern ripped off a 9–2 run sparked by Dickey's layup-and-one, a drive from Vazquez-Troche, and a transition finish by Mia Jones. Totten added a mid-range jumper and Smith converted inside as the Firehawks closed the quarter leading 26–21.

Second Quarter Trading Punches

The second quarter produced a defensive grind, but UT Southern held its advantage through balanced offense. Totten connected on a three, Dickey added another from deep, and Reid attacked the glass to earn and convert free throws.

Vazquez-Troche continued to dictate pace, pushing the floor and setting up Smith for a wing three and later a back-cut finish. UT Southern maintained the lead, taking a 43–36 advantage into the break.

Third Quarter Momentum Shifts

UT Southern's offense cooled in the third, managing 12 points as several clean looks wouldn't fall. Turnovers also turned into quick points for the visitors.

Mary Claire Pike knocked down a corner three to keep UTS in front, and Reid added a strong finish through contact off a Vazquez-Troche assist. But William Carey closed the quarter with a decisive run, overtaking the Firehawks and carrying a 57–55 edge into the fourth.

Fourth Quarter Offensive Freeze

UT Southern continued to battle but struggled to recapture its early scoring form. Dickey fought her way to the rim for a three-point play, and Vazquez-Troche added a late drive, but the Firehawks couldn't overcome the visitors' efficient stretch during the final five minutes.

William Carey closed the game at the foul line to secure the win.

Firehawk Statistical Leaders

• Silkiari Vazquez-Troche — 10 points, 12 assists, 6 rebounds, 1 block, 1 steal
• Ashley Dickey — 20 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 blocks, 1 steal
• Lauren Smith — 10 points, 8 rebounds
• Ramie Reid — 10 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals
• Taya Totten — 9 points, 2 assists

Team Comparison by Quarter

Next Up

UT Southern continues SSAC play on Saturday, November 6, hosting Loyola inside the Curry Athletic Complex.

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!