COMMERCE, Texas (Interstat) — Texas A&M-Commerce defeated Northwestern State 61-52 in a women’s NCAA Division I basketball game Saturday at Texas A&M-Commerce Field House.

The Lions built a 36-27 halftime lead and maintained control throughout the second half. Northwestern State’s Nya Valentine scored a game-high 19 points, including three 3-pointers in the final quarter, but the rally fell short. Reza Po led Texas A&M-Commerce with 14 points and five assists.

The Demons struggled offensively, shooting 32.8% from the field and 2 for 8 from the free-throw line. The Lions shot 45.3% and made 9 of 19 from 3-point range. Attendance was 277.

With the win, Texas A&M-Commerce improved to 11-10 overall. Northwestern State dropped to 11-11.