NEBRASKA CITY, Neb. (Interstat) — A dominant third-quarter surge propelled the Loyola Marymount Lions to a 67-58 victory over the Washington State Cougars in a nonconference women’s basketball game Tuesday night at Beasley Coliseum.

The Lions, who entered the contest as significant underdogs according to advanced metrics, improved to 7-6 on the season by overcoming a slow start. The Cougars, who were projected to win with an 84% probability, fell to 2-13 despite a strong opening period.

Washington State controlled the early tempo, leading 16-12 after the first quarter behind efficient play from Charlotte Abraham and Eleonora Villa. The Lions struggled to find offensive rhythm, but managed to knot the game at 28 by halftime, setting the stage for a decisive turnaround.

The most important stretch of the game came immediately after the intermission. Loyola Marymount erupted for 26 points in the third quarter, outscoring Washington State by 13. The Lions’ defense tightened, generating turnovers and converting them into transition opportunities. A key sequence saw the Lions score seven unanswered points midway through the period, turning a narrow three-point edge into a double-digit lead they would not relinquish. The quarter ended with Loyola Marymount holding a commanding 54-41 advantage.

Jess Lawson, a guard from Las Vegas, led the Lions with 16 points, providing crucial scoring during the pivotal third-quarter run. Andjela Matic of Ub, Serbia, added 12 points and five assists, directing the offense and hitting timely perimeter shots. The Lions’ frontcourt also contributed significantly, with Paula Reus Piza of Palma de Mallorca, Spain, scoring eight points off the bench.

Washington State was led by Eleonora Villa of Lissone, Italy, who scored a game-high 21 points. Charlotte Abraham of Cambrai, France, filled the stat sheet with 15 points, four assists and relentless defensive activity, while Malia Ruud of Pasco, Washington, added 13 points.

The Cougars mounted a final push in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to as few as six points, but could not sustain the rally. Loyola Marymount’s defense held firm in the closing minutes, securing the nine-point road win.

The game was part of a West Coast Conference-organized event. Attendance was 887.

Loyola Marymount will open its WCC schedule at home against Santa Clara on Friday. Washington State begins a road trip at Portland on Friday.