BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Samford women's basketball led for the majority of the afternoon but could not hold off a late rally, falling to Furman 70-62 in a Southern Conference matchup Saturday at the Pete Hanna Center. The Bulldogs dropped to 8-14 overall and 1-4 in league play.

Samford found early momentum with three-point shooting but trailed 19-15 after the opening quarter. The Bulldogs responded with a dominant 25-13 run in the second quarter, fueled by a key three-pointer from Briana Rivera that put Samford in front. At halftime, Samford held a 40-32 lead, having capitalized on points off turnovers and strong bench production.

After Furman narrowed the gap in the third quarter, Samford maintained a slim advantage, heading into the fourth with a 51-48 lead. The Paladins, however, shifted momentum in the final period by converting at the free-throw line and dominating the boards. 

The Bulldogs were out-rebounded 42-28 and saw Furman attempt more than twice as many free throws. Samford turned defense into offense throughout the contest, scoring 20 points off turnovers and receiving 12 points from its bench.

Rivera led the Bulldogs with 13 points on four three-pointers and grabbed four rebounds, Kaylee Yarbrough matched Rivera with 13 points and four rebounds, along with Sierra Godbolt who contributed 13 points and two assists. 

Samford will return to action Friday, Jan. 30, on the road against ETSU. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m. in Johnson City, Tenn.

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