WASHINGTON (Interstat) — The Howard Lady Bison used a dominant third-quarter surge to overpower the Florida A&M Lady Rattlers 89-53 in a non-conference women’s basketball game Saturday at Burr Gymnasium.

Howard improved to 2-0 on the young season, while Florida A&M dropped to 0-2.

The game was controlled early by the Lady Bison, who raced out to a 25-13 lead after the first quarter. The Lady Rattlers struggled to find their offensive rhythm in the first half, scoring only nine points in the second quarter as Howard built a 44-22 halftime advantage.

Any hope of a Florida A&M comeback was extinguished in a decisive third period. The Lady Bison exploded for 32 points while holding the Lady Rattlers to just 10, stretching their lead to 76-32 and putting the game out of reach. Florida A&M outscored Howard 21-13 in a high-scoring but ultimately meaningless fourth quarter.

The statistical sheet illustrated Howard’s comprehensive victory. The Lady Bison shot 45.7% from the field (32 of 70) and were efficient from beyond the arc, making 8 of 19 three-point attempts. They also capitalized on their free throws, converting 17 of 21 from the line.

Florida A&M, by contrast, endured a difficult shooting afternoon, making only 20 of 67 field goal attempts (29.9%) and just 5 of 14 free throws. Howard’s defense was relentless, forcing 25 Lady Rattler turnovers and converting them into numerous transition opportunities. The Lady Bison also tallied 19 steals and 8 blocks.

Howard’s offensive execution was superior, as evidenced by their 19 assists on 32 made baskets. They also controlled the glass, outrebounding Florida A&M 15-10 on the offensive end.

Nile Miller, a 6-foot-1 forward from Woodbury, New Jersey, anchored Howard’s effort with a strong all-around performance, contributing 7 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, a block and a steal in 23 minutes. Teammate Sa’lah Hemingway of San Bernardino, California, added 8 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists and a block.

For Florida A&M, guard Aina Subirats of Barcelona, Spain, provided a bright spot, scoring 12 points in just 13 minutes off the bench.

The game was played in front of an announced crowd of 1,582. Howard’s next contest is on the road against George Washington on Tuesday. Florida A&M’s next game is at UCF on Nov. 21.