CEDAR CITY, Utah – The Sam Houston Bearkats pulled away for a 72-61 victory over Southern Utah on Monday at the America First Event Center. 

The Bearkats (6-3) secured their first road win of the season against the former Western Athletic Conference foe, marking their highest scoring output against a Division I opponent this season. 

The Thunderbirds took advantage of a late run in the opening quarter to grab a 22-18 lead. Sam Houston responded in the second, outscoring Southern Utah 19-13 to take a 37-35 advantage into halftime. 

The Bearkats' defense made the difference, scoring 24 points off turnovers. Fanta Kone contributed five of Southern Utah's turnovers in the first half, including three steals. 

Sam Houston held the Thunderbirds scoreless from the field until the six-minute mark of the third quarter. Southern Utah missed its first eight shots of the half but managed to score on a free throw. 

Kaila Kelley led the Bearkats with 17 points, her highest total against a Division I opponent. Whitney Dunn tied her season high with 16 points, while Kyleigh McGuire added a season-high 14 points. 

Kone flirted with a triple-double, finishing with 11 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds, she also finished the night with five steals.