NEED TO KNOW:
Score: Belhaven 78, Piedmont 63
Records: Piedmont, 13-7 (9-2 CCS); Belhaven, 9-9 (6-4 CCS)

JACKSON, Miss. - Piedmont women's basketball was unable to hold off a late Belhaven rally in a 78-63 loss on Saturday afternoon in Jackson, Mississippi.

The Lions raced out to a double-digit lead in the early going. However, the Blazers were able to battle back in the second quarter and dominated the fourth to run away from Piedmont late.

Despite the loss, Andelin Hill delivered another strong performance, with 19 points and nine rebounds. Kelsey Banks was also in double figures with 16 points and Nae-Nae Eades added 12.

The game began on a strong note for Piedmont, as it used a 12-0 run in the heart of the first quarter to build a 16-5 lead and then led 22-11 at the end of the first 10 minutes.

Unable to capitalize on the chance to put the game away early, the Lions allowed Belhaven to use a 12-1 run over the first 4:36 of the second quarter to draw even at 23-23. Although the Lions were able to settle the run, they only went to the break leading by four at 33-29.

Both teams picked up the offensive pace in the third quarter, scoring 20 points each as the Blazers held within striking distance.

While the Lions were able to push their lead to 58-52 midway through the final quarter, the Blazers roared back, outscoring the Lions 26-5 over the final 5:47 of the contest to take the win.

Up next, Piedmont returns home for its final homestand of the regular season, hosting Maryville this Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 5 p.m.

TURNING POINT:
- Belhaven outscored Piedmont 29-10 in the decisive final quarter.

STANDOUT PERFORMANCES:
- Hill finished one rebound shy of yet another double double, with 19 points and nine rebounds.
- Banks tallied 16 points on a team-high four three-pointers.

INSIDE THE BOX SCORE:
- The Lions had seven turnovers in the final quarter and made just three field goals.

HOW TO FOLLOW:
- To stay up to date on all information regarding Piedmont University Athletics, be sure to visit PiedmontLions.com and connect with the Green and Gold on social media. Follow the Lions on X: @PiedmontLions, Instagram: @PiedmontLions, and Facebook.