UNA jumped out to a big first half lead and cruised to a 78-62 victory over Shorter University Feb. 5 in Flowers Hall.

The Lions lost their previous two games by a combined four points but left little doubt on who was going to come away with a win in this conference battle. UNA led 40-23 at halftime while holding the Hawks to 23 percent shooting before intermission.

“I thought our defense triggered it all tonight,” said head coach Missy Tiber. “Our defensive stops lead us into our transition offense. Getting off to a fast start relives the pressure.”

UNA outscored Shorter in fast break points 13-2 and points the in the paint 34-14.

Junior guard Janae Lyde, in just her fifth came back from a finger injury, dished out 11 assists with only two turnovers.

“Janae did an excellent job of dispersing the basketball,” Tiber said. “She had some real juice and those passes too.”

Junior guard Jennifer Towne finished with 15 points, six rebounds and four assists. Senior guard Delisa Madry hit five three-pointers to pitch in with 15 points.

“Delisa played well as a starter,” Tiber said. “I had a feeling (making a change to the starting line up) was what we needed to and tonight it worked well.”

UNA (11-9, 8-8) hosts Lee (13-6, 10-6) Feb. 7 at 1 p.m. Lee beat UNA 80-72 Dec. 18.

“We played them tough the first time and I think we can beat them Saturday,” Tiber said. “We’ll have a game plan ready for them.”