BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Samford women's basketball honored its seniors Saturday afternoon but came up short in a defensive battle against ETSU, falling 46-39 at the Pete Hanna Centerin the regular-season finale.

Before tip-off, Samford recognized the careers and contributions of Jada Knight, Alyssa Tarpley, Sierra Godbolt and Emily Snoddy in front of the home crowd.

Samford (13-18, 6-8 Southern Conference) built early momentum, jumping out to an 18-10 lead after the first quarter and holding a four-point edge at the half. The Bulldogs' offense stalled in the third quarter, however, managing only four points as ETSU surged ahead and held on down the stretch. Both teams struggled to find a rhythm offensively, with Samford shooting just 25.6 percent from the field and 18.2 percent from three-point range.

A bright spot for the Bulldogs came at the free-throw line, converting 13 of 14 attempts for a season-high 92.9 percent. Despite trailing by as many as seven in the final minute, Samford fought to the final horn but could not overcome the deficit.

Godbolt led the Bulldogs with 15 points, going a perfect 7-for-7 on free throws and matching her season high with two made threes. Freshmen Kaylee Yarbrough provided nine points off the bench.

Samford will begin postseason play at the Southern Conference Tournament on Thursday, March 5, in Asheville, N.C.
 

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