SPARTANBURG, S.C.- Samford women's basketball built an early lead but could not overcome late scoring struggles, falling 52-44 to Wofford on Friday afternoon at Jerry Richardson Indoor Stadium. The loss moves the Bulldogs to 12-17 overall and 5-7 in SoCon play.

The Bulldogs set the tone with defensive energy, holding Wofford to just six points in the opening quarter and leading by as many as nine early in the second. Samford took a 27-25 edge into halftime behind timely three-pointers and steady ball movement. Wofford answered with a 20-point third quarter, swinging momentum before the Terriers clamped down defensively in the final period. Samford managed just four points in the fourth quarter, shooting 2-for-14 from the floor as the host Terriers pulled away in the rivalry contest.

Briana Rivera led Samford with 14 points, knocking down four three-pointers and logging 36 minutes. Sierra Godbolt provided 11 points, two rebounds and three assists. Defensively, Emily Bowman delivered a standout performance with six rebounds, four blocks and a steal in just 20 minutes. Francie Morris contributed five points, eight rebounds and a team-high four assists.

Wofford's Maddie Heiss led all scorers with 17 points on 7-of-10 shooting, Samford was held to 32.1 percent shooting and was out-rebounded, with second-chance opportunities going Wofford's way in key moments. The Bulldogs also committed 13 turnovers to the Terriers' seven, hampering chances for a late comeback.

Samford returns home to host Chattanooga on Thursday, Feb. 26 at 4 p.m. in the Pete Hanna Center.

FOLLOW THE BULLDOGS

For the latest news and information on Samford women's basketball, visit the official website for Samford Athletics at SamfordSports.com. Fans can also follow the Bulldogs on social media at /SamfordWBB (Facebook) and @SamfordWBB (Twitter).