LAKE CHARLES, La. - Houston Christian University dropped an 83–35 Southland Conference decision to McNeese on Thursday night at the Legacy Center.

McNeese built separation early, opening the game on a 28–2 run in the first quarter and maintaining control the rest of the way. HCU found more rhythm in the third period, outscoring the Cowgirls 17–21 behind improved shooting and trips to the free-throw line, but the deficit proved too large to overcome. 

Madison Hurta led the Huskies with nine points, adding a pair of rebounds and a steal. Jordan Jackson contributed six points and a team-high eight rebounds, while Madelyne Davis added six points off the bench, including a third-quarter three. Grace Booth finished with five points and five boards.

HCU's most efficient stretch came in the third quarter, when the Huskies shot 50 percent from the field and scored 17 points. Davis and Hurta knocked down key jumpers, and Jackson added a pair of baskets inside as the Huskies generated better ball movement. 

McNeese was led by Arianna Patton's 23 points on 7-of-10 shooting, including four three-pointers. The Cowgirls shot 51.7 percent overall and scored 35 points off HCU turnovers.

Houston Christian finished with 21 bench points and outrebounded McNeese 36–27, with Jackson, Booth, and Dasia Hyams combining for 17 boards.

The Huskies return to action Saturday, Feb. 7, traveling to Hammond, Louisiana, to face Southeastern Louisiana at 1 p.m.