CLEVELAND, Miss. — A dominant second-quarter performance and a strong defensive effort powered the Delta State University women's basketball team to a 61–57 victory over Arkansas–Monticello on Saturday afternoon inside Walter Sillers Coliseum.

After trailing early, the Lady Statesmen responded with their best offensive quarter of the season, erupting for 28 points in the second period and connecting on six three-pointers to seize the lead for good. Delta State knocked down 11 threes overall, using its perimeter shooting and ball movement to control the game's tempo.

Jariyah Williamson led all scorers with 17 points, adding five rebounds and three assists while guiding the offense during the critical second-quarter surge. Olivia Allen added 13 points and played a major role in transition, while Madi Kate Vuncannon provided a spark from deep with 12 points, all from beyond the arc.

Delta State's defensive pressure proved equally important. The Lady Statesmen forced 23 turnovers and converted them into 27 points, consistently disrupting UAM's rhythm and generating scoring opportunities. The DSU bench contributed 16 points, highlighted by Daniela Gintere's steady playmaking and a timely three-pointer from Bramyia Johnson that helped cement momentum heading into halftime.

Arkansas–Monticello closed the gap in the fourth quarter, but DSU held firm with key defensive stops and disciplined possessions down the stretch. Delta State's poise in the final minutes secured the win and lifted the Lady Statesmen to 2–1 on the season.

Delta State returns to action next week as the Lady Statesmen continue their non-conference schedule on the road as they travel to Russellville, Ark., Tuesday to take on the Golden Suns from Arkansas Tech University at 1:00 p.m.