Texas Southern Lady Tigers win 64-58 in Puerto Rico Clasico

BAYAMÓN, Puerto Rico – The Texas Southern Lady Tigers withstood a Thanksgiving Day challenge from the University of Puerto Rico at Bayamón on the first day of the Puerto Rico Clasico, claiming a 64-58 win over their hosts.

TSU scored eight unanswered points midway through the fourth quarter to pull away from Puerto Rico– Bayamón as the Lady Tigers improved their season record to 3-1.

Artavia Ford turned in a double-double performance with 26 points and 12 rebounds to lead the Lady Tigers. She shot 8-of-16 from the floor and went to the free throw line 14 times, making 10 of her attempts. Ford also blocked five shots.

Joyce Kennerson added 11 points for the Lady Tigers. Breasia McElrath chipped in eight points, followed by Kaitlyn Palmer's seven points.

Jamillette Quinones led UPRB, an NCAA Division II independent program, with 22 points.

The Lady Tigers led for most of the final three quarters but fended off a late run by the UPRB at the beginning of the fourth quarter. Back-to-back layups from Lyannis Torres – four of her 11 points, tied the game 49-49 with 8:15 remaining in the game. The teams exchanged leads as the hosts held a 52-51 lead at the six-minute mark.

Ford knocked down a jumper with 5:59 remaining in the game that started an 8-0 run by the Lady Tigers. She scored five of the team's eight points during the two-and-a-half minute stretch, with McElrath adding another three points.

The Lady Tigers conclude play at the Puerto Rico Clasico on Friday against Presbyterian College.

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TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS