HUNTSVILLE – The Sam Houston women's basketball team could not hold back WKU on Thursday night, falling to the Lady Toppers, 57-45, at Johnson Coliseum. 

The Bearkats (12-12, 5-9 CUSA) fought to stay in the game and made a late push in the fourth quarter but couldn't close the gap as the Hilltoppers (18-7, 9-4 CUSA) pulled away down the stretch. 

Nyla Inmon led Sam Houston with 16 points and nine rebounds, while Deborah Ogayemi followed with 15 points and six boards. Fanta Kone distributed the ball well, finishing with six assists. 

The Bearkats got off to a solid start, leading 12-9 at the end of the first quarter. Inmon played a key role early, scoring six points and grabbing four rebounds. Defensively, Sam Houston was aggressive, forcing six turnovers in the opening period. 

WKU's Josie Gilvin was the difference-maker, scoring a game-high 23 points. She was the only Hilltopper to reach double figures. 

Sam Houston made a run in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to four points. However, WKU responded with key baskets in the final minutes to put the game out of reach. 

The Bearkats will look to bounce back when they host Middle Tennessee on Saturday at Johnson Coliseum. The game will be streamed on ESPN+.