MIAMI — Sam Houston could not hold on to an early lead in 64-49 loss against FIU at Ocean Bank Convocation Center on Thursday.  

The Bearkats (6-16, 1-9) led 16-14 at the end of the first quarter. The Kats entered a three-minute scoring drought that put the Panthers up 38-24 going into the half.  

The Panters shot 43 percent from the field while the Bearkats shot 28 percent. Sam Houston only managed six points in the fourth quarter which the Panthers took advantage of on the way to the win. 

Tamera Derrough led the team with nine points. Shanti Henry and Kaylee Jefferson both added eight. Raanee Smith grabbed 10 rebounds.  

The Kats will face Liberty in Lynchburg, Virginia on Saturday. Tipoff is set for 2 p.m. CT and scheduled to be streamed online on ESPN+.