ROME -- Despite a slow start the Shorter Lady Hawks used a late run in the first half to top Valdosta State, 64-58, Thursday night at the Winthrop-King Centre.

Both teams move to 9-11 on the season and 5-9 in the Gulf South Conference.

The Lady Blazer jumped out to a commanding lead in the opening frame, and held a 14 point advantage midway through the period. But, Shorter began chipping away to take the lead and earn the win. Down 24-11 with 9:28 to play in the frame, Madison Rice netted a 3-pointer to ignite a 20-2 run to close out the half and take a 31-26 lead into the intermission.

The second half was back and forth through the opening minutes as the teams traded the lead. The Lady Hawks took the lead for good with 10:35 to play as Ieshia Alexander netted a 3-pointer to make it a 44-41 game. Down the stretch Shorter built on its advantage and led by as many as eight late.

Alexander was the lone Lady Hawk in double-figures; tallying a game high 17 points. Lindsey Crawford just missed a double-double, however, chipping in with a team high 13 rebounds and 8 points.

Shorter shot 45.8% from the field, and 60% from beyond the arc in the game; while holding Valdosta State to 36% shooting and 17.6% from 3-point range.

The Lady Blazers were led by Maggie Davis' 14 points, Jordan Waugh's 13, and Imari Simpson's 12.

The Lady Hawks will look to keep things going Saturday afternoon as West Florida visits the Winthrop-King Centre for a 2:00pm tip.