11-6,4-2CUSA
FIU
11-6,4-2CUSA
Kats drop first CUSA road game to FIU
1/22/2026 8:57:00 PM | Women's Basketball
MIAMI, Fla. – Sam Houston dropped its first Conference USA road game of the season Thursday night, falling 66–60 to FIU at Ocean Bank Convocation Center.
The Bearkats (11–6, 4–2 CUSA) got off to a slow start in the opening quarter as the Panthers (11–6, 4–2 CUSA) jumped out to a 17–8 lead. Sam Houston responded in the second quarter, outscoring FIU 23–11 to trim the deficit to one heading into halftime.
The two teams traded leads throughout the second half before FIU pulled away in the final minute. The Panthers outscored the Bearkats 38–29 after the break to seal the win down the stretch.
Deborah Ogayemi led Sam Houston with 14 points, pacing three Bearkats in double figures. Nyla Inmon added 13 points and seven rebounds, while Aysia Ward-Strong recorded her second double-double of the season with 12 points and 10 boards.
Defensively, Sam Houston forced 22 turnovers, converting them into 29 points, and recorded 10 steals on the night. Ogayemi led the way with three steals, followed by Fanta Kone and Ward-Strong with two each.
Up Next
The Bearkats travel west to take on Missouri State on Saturday at Great Southern Bank Arena. Tipoff is scheduled for 1 p.m., with the matchup streaming live on ESPN+.
