CLEVELAND – With the help of Veronica Walker's 26 points, the Delta State Lady Statesmen (20-1, 8-1 GSC) were able to outlast the Lady Bisons of Harding University (14-7, 5-4 GSC) 70-53 on Saturday, Feb. 12 in Sillers Coliseum and extend their record home winning streak to 61 games.

Walker achieved her 11 double-double of the season with her 26 points and 11 rebounds in 34 minutes of play. She also was 100 percent from the free throw line, making all 10 of her free throw attempts.

Delta State's only loss this season is due to Harding University, who beat them 68-66 on January 15 at Rhodes Field House. The Lady Bisons came to Sillers looking to defeat the Lady Statesmen for the second time this season, but the green-and-white wouldn't allow it.

It went back and fourth in the first half as there were eight lead changes, but the Lady Statesmen didn't let the Lady Bisons have the lead after halftime.

There was an epidemic of turnovers between both teams in the first half. The Lady Statesmen had only one less turnover (9) then the Lady Bisons (10). However, the green-and-white were nothing less than perfect from behind the line during the first period as they made 13 of their 13 free throws. Going into the half, DSU led Harding 33-28.

The Lady Statesmen continued making their free throws in the second half, impressively ending the night 84.8 percent from behind the line (28-33). This would make up for the struggles the Lady Statesmen would have in the field. DSU made only 39.2 percent from the floor (20-51) and 33.3 percent from behind the arch (2-6) for the night.

Harding's Sierra Rollins scored 23 points for the Lady Bisons, but it was not enough to overcome their 22 turnovers forced by the green-and-white.

The Lady Statesmen will hit the road Monday, Feb. 14 to take on the Lady Tigers of Ouachita Baptist in Vining Arena. Tip off is slated for 6 P.M.