HADLEY, Ky. (Interstat) — Salma Khedr scored 20 points to lead Western Kentucky to a 70-65 women’s basketball victory over Middle Tennessee on Saturday at E.A. Diddle Arena.

The Lady Toppers (7-18, 2-11 Conference USA) built a 55-38 lead through three quarters before holding off a late Blue Raiders rally. Middle Tennessee (14-12, 8-5) outscored Western Kentucky 27-15 in the final period but could not close the gap. Trinity Rowe added 18 points and six assists for Western Kentucky.

Macie Phifer led the Blue Raiders with 21 points and six rebounds. Blair Baugus had a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds. Both teams were efficient from the free-throw line, combining to make 38 of 47 attempts. Western Kentucky scored 19 points off 11 Middle Tennessee turnovers to secure the win in front of 1,083 fans.