HATTIESBURG, Miss. (Interstat) — The Southern Mississippi Lady Eagles remained undefeated Tuesday night, using a dominant second quarter to pull away from the Southeastern Louisiana Lions for an 86-53 women’s basketball victory at Reed Green Coliseum.

The Lady Eagles improved to 5-0 on the young season, while the Lions fell to 1-3.

A competitive first quarter saw Southern Mississippi hold a narrow 15-11 lead, but the game shifted dramatically in the second period. The Lady Eagles outscored Southeastern Louisiana 24-11 before halftime, building a 39-22 advantage and seizing control of the contest. The Lions showed a spark after the break, scoring 16 points in the third quarter, but the Lady Eagles continued their efficient scoring to maintain a comfortable lead.

Southern Mississippi put the game fully out of reach with a 29-point explosion in the fourth quarter, showcasing their offensive depth and securing the lopsided win.

Carly Keats led a balanced Southern Mississippi attack with a game-high 17 points. The Philadelphia, Mississippi, native also dished out three assists. She was complemented by Sakyia White, who controlled the paint with 14 points and a blocked shot, and Jakayla Johnson, who added 12 points and two assists.

For Southeastern Louisiana, Natalie Huff shouldered the scoring load. The 5-foot-7 guard from San Antonio, Texas, finished with 16 points in 26 minutes of action. Mia Ramos provided a boost off the bench, contributing 10 points.

The Lions struggled to find consistent offense against a stout Southern Mississippi defense, which has now held four of its five opponents under 65 points this season. Southern Mississippi’s early-season success includes a road win against Jacksonville State and a decisive victory over Northern Illinois.

Southeastern Louisiana, coming off a tough loss to Arkansas, will look to rebound at home against Texas A&M-Commerce on Saturday. Southern Mississippi puts its perfect record on the line the same day when it hosts Nicholls State.