CLEVELAND, Miss. – The University of West Florida women's basketball team started off their play after the holiday break with a 59-56 win over conference opponent Delta State University on Thursday.
 
Rylie Stephens once again led the Argos with 13 points and was second with five rebounds. Delaney Trushell added 11 points with two blocks and a steal.
 
Delta State started off the game with back-to-back three pointers to take the early lead. The Argos were able to diminish the lead and finish the first quarter only down by two points. The second quarter was tied up at 21-21 with 3:04 left in the half. Delta State extended their lead back to three points but a layup from Bella Stone closed it up at one to head into the locker room at half.  
 
The third quarter saw five different lead changes before the game was tied up at 33-33 with 4:55 left. Delta State went on to extend their lead to seven points, holding it at 42-35 to head into the final quarter.
 
West Florida came out strong in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Lady Statesmen 24-14. The Argos were behind by nine to start the final quarter but closed it up at 48-48 with 5:48 left. A good three pointer by Carmen Jones extended that lead but Delta State quickly tied it back up at 52-52 and again at 54-54. Free throws proved strong for the Argos as they hit four to secure their lead and another to end the game with a victory at 59-56.
 
West Florida outshot Delta State at 43-percent from the field compared to the Lady Statesmen 36-percent. UWF was able to convert 21 points off turnovers from DSU and 12 on fast breaks.
 
The Lady Statesmen were led offensively by Wakiryah Daniels with 18 points.
 
The Argos will return to action on January 4 at Mississippi College. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.