PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas – (Women's Basketball) The Devilettes stepped on the floor in Prairie View, Texas, looking to keep their place in the top eight contenders in Southwestern Athletic Conference women basketball rankings. The last time MVSU and the Lady Panthers faced off, it was the Lady Panthers, who were sent home with a loss.

With an intensity that was palpable, the Lady Panthers searched for any weak spots in the Devilettes' armor, seeking a way to exploit them. Defensively, the Devilettes struggled down the stretch, allowing Prairie View to take a commanding lead. 

After the first, both teams remained in the hunt for the victory; with a score of 20-16, the contest could go either way. The second quarter proved to be a mountain for MVSU as the Lady Panthers outpaced them 28-15. Defensive pressure on Ashley Beals, was a huge contributing factor in the lack of points by MVSU.

Entering the third period, the Devilettes were looking to rally back, for an on-the-road victory. Based on the third alone, MVSU showed grit and determination as they finished the quarter two shy of Prairie View's 26-points.

The contest may not have ended the way the Devilettes wanted, but there were some bright spots. Despite the pressure on her, Beals finished with 29-points, six rebounds and one block. Kristy Parker stepped up to drop 13-points, four rebounds and two assists.

The Devilettes will play against the Lady Tigers of Texas Southern University on Monday February 20, 2017 at 5:30 p.m.