The Lions fell to Delta State University 60-58 after a slow second half, where they were unable to hold a six-point halftime lead.

UNA scored the first basket of the second half, but the Statesman went on a 14-0 run and never surrendered the lead.

“We seem to have a lull every game,” said head coach Missy Tiber. “We are going to have to find a way to eliminate that.”

Janae Lyde was fouled while making a layup, but could not convert the free-throw attempt with 2:35 remaining in the contest.

Lyde’s basket cut the lead to 54-52.

“That free-throw could have really helped,” Tiber said. “With Lauren out, we’ve got to be able to make our free-throws.”

Lauren Farris is the Lions’ leading scorer and is out for the regular season after tearing her ACL last week.

After trading three point baskets, UNA sent the Statesman to the line with quick fouls after the inbounds play.

Delta State missed four free throws in a row, and Delisa Madry hit a three-point basket for the Lions with 10 seconds left in the game.

After another Lions foul, Delta State converted one of two free throws and held a two-point lead with 7.1 seconds.

Jennifer Towne was unable to convert on her last second shot as the Lions came up short to the No. 18 team in the country.

“I feel like we are just as good as they are,” Tiber said. “We just have to make a few more shots and we can beat them.”

The Lions play their last home game of the season when they play host to Christian Brothers University Saturday, Feb. 22 at 1 p.m.