HOUSTON (Interstat) — The Rice women’s basketball team used a decisive second-quarter surge to defeat Charlotte 84-59 in an American Athletic Conference game Wednesday night at Tudor Fieldhouse.

The Owls outscored the 49ers 26-11 in the period, turning a tight game into a commanding lead they would not relinquish. Rice improved to 13-3 overall, while Charlotte fell to 8-8.

Princess Anderson led all scorers with 26 points for Charlotte. Rice was paced by Victoria Flores and Louann Battiston, who each scored 20 points. The Owls shot 43.5% from the field and made 17 of 20 free throws, while Charlotte was held to 34.4% shooting.

An announced crowd of 619 watched the Owls control the paint, outscoring Charlotte 36-20 inside.