GREENVILLE, S.C. (Interstat) — The Mississippi women’s basketball team built a massive early lead and withstood a furious second-half rally to defeat Vanderbilt 89-78 in a Southeastern Conference game Friday at Bi-Lo Center.

The Rebels dominated the first half, leading 49-17 at intermission after holding the Commodores to just six first-quarter points. Vanderbilt responded after halftime, outscoring Mississippi 61-40 in the second half, but could not overcome the deficit.

Latasha Lattimore led Mississippi with 28 points. Cotie McMahon added 27 points and seven assists. For Vanderbilt, Mikayla Blakes scored 24 points and Aubrey Galvan had 18.

Mississippi improved to 23-10. Vanderbilt fell to 27-4.