CLEVELAND, Tenn. —  The Delta State University women's basketball team suffered a tough overtime loss on the road Thursday evening, falling 59-58 to Lee University in Gulf South Conference action at Walker Arena.

Delta State (15-10, 13-7 GSC) controlled much of the contest, leading for more than 35 minutes and building an 18-point advantage midway through the third quarter. The Lady Statesmen came out strong early, using a 13-2 run in the first quarter to seize momentum and take a 14-7 lead after one. DSU continued to apply pressure in the second quarter behind balanced scoring and solid defense, stretching the margin to 29-17 at halftime.

Lee (16-8, 12-7 GSC) battled back in the second half, outscoring Delta State 18-9 in the third quarter and continuing to chip away in the fourth. Despite the comeback, Delta State maintained composure and held a narrow lead late in regulation. With the score tied at 53-53 after four quarters, the game moved into overtime.

In the extra period, both teams traded baskets in a tightly contested finish. Lee capitalized at the free throw line and edged ahead in the final seconds, holding on for the one-point victory.

Jariyah Williamson led Delta State with 13 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, while Dakiya Toney added 11 points and seven rebounds. Adyson Roberts provided a spark off the bench with nine points and five assists, and Kennedee Shelton contributed six points and seven rebounds.

The Lady Statesmen shot 43.1 percent from the field and out rebounded Lee 41-27, including a strong 33 points from the bench. However, Lee's efficiency at the free throw line, converting 16-of-19 attempts, proved to be the difference in the contest.

Delta State will look to bounce back in its next Gulf South Conference match up as the Lady Statesmen will travel to Nashville to take on the Trojans from Trevecca Nazarene University Saturday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. (CT).