CLEVELAND, Miss. – The Delta State Lady Statesmen exploded for 26 points in the fourth quarter to pull away from the Valdosta State Blazers and secure a 63-49 conference victory Thursday night at Sillers Coliseum.

Delta State (14-9 overall, 12-6 GSC) trailed after three quarters before delivering its most complete stretch of the night, outscoring the Blazers 26-9 over the final 10 minutes. The Lady Statesmen shot a blistering 70 percent from the field in the fourth and went 11-for-14 at the free-throw line to seal the win.

Dakiya Toney led the way with 16 points on an efficient 7-of-9 shooting and added 11 rebounds to record her sixth double-double of the season. Jariyah Williamson poured in 13 points, grabbed eight boards and dished out three assists, while Kennedee Shelton provided a huge lift off the bench with 11 points on 3-of-4 shooting, including a perfect 4-for-4 effort at the stripe.

Delta State's reserves made a major impact, outscoring Valdosta State's bench 31-13. Olivia Allen chipped in eight points and three rebounds, while Adyson Roberts added five.

The contest was tight throughout the first half. The teams were even at 13 after one quarter, and Valdosta State took a slim 25-23 edge into the break. Delta State began to find its rhythm in the third, setting the stage for the decisive fourth-quarter surge.

For the game, the Lady Statesmen shot 44.7 percent from the floor and forced 19 Blazer turnovers, converting them into 18 points. DSU also held advantages in points in the paint (28-22) and fast-break scoring (17-6).

Delta State returns to action on Saturday, Feb. 14 at Sillers Coliseum. Tipoff against West Florida is scheduled for 2 p.m. The Lady Statesmen will Play4Kay for breast cancer awareness. Fans are encouraged to wear pink.