ITTA BENA – (Women's Basketball) Mississippi Valley started the conference season with the Lady Lions of the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, defeating them 73-63. In today's contest, the Devilettes' 57-54 cemented their place in the Southwestern Athletic Conference Tournament, slated to begin on Tuesday,

Ashley Beals continues her dominion over the opposition, finishing the contest with a double-double of 24-points and 17-rebounds. Kenya Hailey landed 17-points, five rebounds and three assists.

The contest was in favor of the Lady Lions in the beginning, with the first quarter ending 13-4. MVSU turned up the heat in the second, outpacing UAPB, 23-13, taking a 27-26 lead into the break.

With continued pressure and consistent offensive strategy, the Devilettes were able to overpower the Lady Lions on Senior Night.

On Tuesday, Mississippi Valley will travel for the opening round of the SWAC tournament. At this time, all signs are pointing to the Lady Tigers of Grambling State University in Grambling, Louisiana.