By Thomas Corhern, TTU Sports Information

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee State scored 56 points in the second half as the Lady Tigers pulled away late to top Tennessee Tech 81-72 at the Gentry Center.

The Golden Eagles fall to 15-9 overall, 9-5 in the Ohio Valley Conference.

Tech had four players score in double figures as Jada Guinn led the way with 17 points on 7-of-9 shooting with two rebounds, five assists, a steal and a block. Maaliya Owens had 14 points, while Reagan Hurst scored 11 and Anna Walker added 10. Tech also had a nice effort from freshman Cayla Cowart, who scored eight points on 3-of-6 shooting, including two 3-pointers.

Erica Haynes-Overton led TSU with 21 points, while Sierra McCullogh scored 19 and Gia Adams added 15. McCullough also completed the double-double with 15 boards. She shot an efficient 8-for-12 and only played 23 minutes as she reached her fifth foul.

Tennessee State (9-15, 4-9 OVC) used its physical presence to make the run in the second half, outscoring Tech 50-26 in the paint. The Lady Tigers also controlled the boards, outrebounding the Golden Eagles 48-29, including 21 offensive caroms. McCullough had seven of the offensive rebounds.

Kianni Westbrook also had 10 rebounds, while Lyric Cole had seven.

The Lady Tigers also spent a lot of time at the free-throw line, earning 33 tries at the charity stripe and knocking down 23. Tech was 18-for-21.

Tech finished the game shooting 37.7 percent, including 8-for-26 from 3-point range.

The Golden Eagles return to action on Thursday as they host Lindenwood. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.

Photo | Thomas Corhern, TTU Sports Information