ARKADELPHIA, Ark.— Due to the double-digit scoring of Shameka Russell, Sheena Johnson, Moe Bell and Veronica Walker, the Delta State Lady Statesmen(21-1, 9-1 GSC) were able to defeat the Lady Tigers of Ouachita Baptist (16-6, 7-3 GSC) 80-71 Monday, Feb. 14 at Vining Arena.

The game proved to be a too-close-for-comfort matchup as there were six lead changes during the first period. However, the Lady Statesmen never lost their composure, and they never gave up the lead during the second period.

In the first half, the Lady Statesmen had a seven-point lead over the Lady Tigers, but they didn't hold it for long due to turnovers. DSU had 11 turnovers in which OBU took advantage and put up 17 points. Going into the half, the Lady Statesmen were only up by three (38-35).

Turnovers continued to plague DSU in the second half. They ended the game with a total of 20, but they overcame the turnovers by getting position underneath the basket. The Lady Statesmen out-rebounded the Lady Tigers 47-28. 16 of the green-and-white's rebounds were on the offensive side.

"I thought we did on good job on the boards," said head coach Sandra Rushing.

Veronica Walker had 14 boards herself. She added another double-double to her list (12 for the season), scoring 15 points along with her rebounds.

Walker wasn't the only Lady Statesmen with such great numbers.

Shameka Russell scored 17 points for DSU, which put her as high-scorer for the Lady Statesmen. She also had four rebounds, one assists and one steal.

Sheena Johnson scored 16 points and brought in five rebounds. She also had three steals and two assists.

Moe Bell had an excellent night as well, making five of eight three's. She scored 15 points and pulled in three rebounds.

The Lady Statesmen ended night shooting 46.7 percent from the field (28-60) and 55.6 percent from beyond the arch (5-9). The green-and-white had a stellar night from the free throw line as they shot 79.2 percent (19-24).

"I'm happy we got that win," said Rushing. "But we are not making smart decisions; we've got to do better than that."

Delta State will host Henderson State University for their second matchup of the season Feb. 17 at Sillers Coliseum. Tip off is set for 6:00 p.m.