HOUSTON (Interstat) — In a game defined by grinding defense and squandered opportunities, the Houston Cougars used a decisive rebounding advantage and timely fourth-quarter execution to fend off the Montana Lady Griz 60-54 in a nonconference women’s basketball game Tuesday afternoon at Hofheinz Pavilion.

A crowd of 1,523 watched as Houston improved to 6-5 overall, while Montana fell to 2-7.

The contest was a struggle for offensive rhythm from the outset. Montana established an early lead, closing the first quarter ahead 14-11 behind a balanced attack. However, the second quarter proved pivotal, as Houston’s defense clamped down, holding the Lady Griz to just nine points. The Cougars capitalized with a 15-point frame to take a 26-23 lead into halftime, a margin they would not relinquish.

The most important stretch of the game came late in the fourth quarter with Houston clinging to a narrow lead. Leading 53-51 with under 30 seconds remaining, the Cougars’ TK Pitts delivered the decisive blow, sinking a critical 3-pointer from the wing off an assist from Jade Jones to extend the advantage to five points. Montana, which had multiple chances to tie or take the lead in the final minutes, could not answer. Houston sealed the victory at the free-throw line in the closing seconds.

Montana mounted a significant challenge in the third quarter, erupting for 19 points to briefly narrow the gap, but could never overtake the Cougars. The Lady Griz were ultimately undone by their inability to secure rebounds and protect the basketball. Houston dominated the glass, hauling in 13 offensive rebounds that led to 18 second-chance points, compared to just three offensive boards and seven second-chance points for Montana. The Cougars also converted 18 points off 18 Montana turnovers, while the Lady Griz managed only seven points off 14 Houston giveaways.

Montana’s Jocelyn Land led all scorers with 15 points and added seven rebounds. Mack Konig contributed 13 points, four rebounds and three assists for the Lady Griz. For Houston, TK Pitts posted a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds, providing a crucial interior presence. Briana Peguero led the Cougars in scoring with 14 points, along with five rebounds and two assists, while Kierra Merchant added eight points, three assists, two steals and two blocks.

Shooting was inefficient for both sides. Houston made 22 of 63 attempts from the field for 34.9%, and just 4 of 18 from 3-point range. Montana was slightly more accurate but less prolific, hitting 17 of 48 shots for 35.4%, including 7 of 27 from beyond the arc. Both teams were effective at the free-throw line; Houston made 12 of 14, Montana 13 of 17.

The game was a defensive battle, with the teams combining for 19 steals and forcing 32 total turnovers. Houston’s ability to control the paint, outscoring Montana 34-20 inside, and capitalize on Montana’s mistakes proved to be the difference in a contest where scoring was at a premium.

Montana continues its road trip in Texas, facing Abilene Christian on Friday and Tarleton State on Saturday. Houston travels to face West Virginia on Sunday in its final game before the holiday break.