MONTICELLO, Ark. – University of Arkansas – Fort Smith Women's Basketball started the Ryan McAdams era off with a win Tuesday, defeating the University of Arkansas at Monticello, 65-54, in a road nonconference matchup.

UAFS led 21-10 after the first quarter and never looked back, extending the lead to as many as 22 at 34-12 halfway through the second quarter.

The Lions held a double figure lead for much of the game, with the Cotton Blossoms only cutting the margin to single digits in the final minute of the game.

UAFS struggled shooting the ball at only 37.5 percent, but made up for it with a defense that forced 20 turnovers and held UAFS to 31.7 percent from the floor.

Forward Mar'Shalia Lollie led UAFS with a near double-double, scoring 16 points to go with nine rebounds. Guard Paige Elston chipped in with eight points and nine boards, as well.

Guard Dachelle Terry was the other Lion to reach double figures in points, scoring all 10 of her points in the first quarter. Guard Ashanti Eden and forward Laurissa Campbell also had nine points apiece for the Lions.

UAFS is back in action Thursday at 5:30 p.m. for its home opener at Gayle Kaundart Arena at the Stubblefield Center against the University of Central Oklahoma.