PULASKI, Tenn. - UT Southern extended its winning streak to nine games on Friday afternoon, pulling away for a 77–65 victory over Thomas University at the Curry Athletic Complex.

The Firehawks set the tone immediately, racing out to a 25–11 advantage in the opening quarter behind sharp ball movement and aggressive defense. Ashley Dickey jumpstarted the offense early, scoring in transition and attacking the paint, while Ramie Reid knocked down a pair of first-quarter three-pointers to help UT Southern build separation.

UT Southern cooled slightly in the second quarter but maintained control thanks to its defense and rebounding. Lauren Smith cleaned the glass and finished inside, while Abbilyn Teter provided a spark with energy plays and timely buckets. The Firehawks carried a 37–24 lead into halftime, never allowing Thomas to threaten the margin.

The third quarter proved to be the turning point. As Thomas attempted to rally, UT Southern responded with composure. Dickey and Reid combined to score 10 points in the period, and Reid protected the rim with a key block to halt momentum. A fast-break layup by Reid midway through the quarter pushed the lead to 17, the Firehawks' largest advantage of the game.

Thomas made another push early in the fourth, trimming the deficit to single digits, but UT Southern answered again. Teter buried a three, Dickey converted through contact, and Reid closed the door at the free-throw line as the Firehawks steadily rebuilt a double-digit cushion. UT Southern outscored Thomas 20–18 in the final frame to secure the win.

Dickey led the Firehawks with a game-high 24 points, adding 13 rebounds, four steals, and three assists for a dominant all-around performance. Reid followed with 16 points on efficient shooting, along with eight rebounds, two blocks, and a pair of assists.

Teter chipped in 11 points, knocking down two three-pointers, while Smith contributed 10 points and nine rebounds, anchoring the interior on both ends. Silkiari Vazquez-Troche added eight points and eight assists, controlling the tempo and setting up teammates throughout the afternoon.

UT Southern finished the game with 41 rebounds, 15 assists, and nine steals, using pressure defense and balanced scoring to remain unbeaten in its last nine outings.

UT Southern will hit the road next, traveling to Mount Vernon, Ga., to face Brewton-Parker Christian on Thursday, January 29.

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