TROY, Ala. (Interstat) — The Troy women’s basketball team used a dominant third quarter to pull away from Chattanooga and remain undefeated with a 73-56 victory on Wednesday night at Trojan Arena.

In a game witnessed by 2,465 fans, the Trojans improved to 3-0, while the Lady Mocs fell to an even 2-2.

Chattanooga started strong, leading 20-18 after a competitive first quarter. However, the offense stalled dramatically in the middle periods. The Lady Mocs managed just seven points in the second quarter and a mere five in the third, allowing Troy to seize control. The Trojans outscored Chattanooga 37-12 across those two frames, turning a tight contest into a comfortable lead.

Zay Dyer led the charge for Troy, posting a formidable double-double with 14 points and 17 rebounds to go along with three assists and two blocks. Ashley Baez was the game’s leading scorer, pouring in 18 points, including four three-pointers. Fortuna Ngnawo also recorded a strong all-around performance with 13 points, seven rebounds and three steals.

For Chattanooga, Caia Elisaldez filled the stat sheet with 11 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Kalifa Ford and Sarah Owona added 10 and eight points, respectively.

Troy’s defense was a key factor, holding Chattanooga to 31.6 percent shooting from the floor. The Trojans also dominated the interior, outscoring the Lady Mocs 36-20 in the paint and securing nine offensive rebounds to Chattanooga’s two. Troy converted 16 points off 14 Chattanooga turnovers.

Despite a late surge that saw Chattanooga score 24 points in the fourth quarter, the deficit built during the second and third quarters was too large to overcome.

Troy next travels to face Kansas State on Tuesday. Chattanooga returns home to host UAB on Sunday.