SALT LAKE CITY – A slow start in the first quarter put University of Arkansas - Fort Smith Women's Basketball in a deficit it was unable to make up as the Lions dropped a second consecutive game at Westminster College, 87-65, on Saturday.

The Lions shot just 12.5 percent in the opening 10 minutes as they fell behind 26-9. Meanwhile, the Griffins shot 62.5 percent in the first quarter and 77.8 percent in the second quarter for a 47-26 lead at the break.

The Griffins stayed hot after the break, shooting 55.0 percent in the third and finishing at 58.9 percent.

Despite the deficit, the Lions battled until the final buzzer, shooting 52.4 percent in the fourth quarter and doubling up the Griffins, 28-14.

Guard Riley Hayes led the Lions with 12 points, connecting on all four of her three-point attempts. Forward Sinetra Jones added 11 points and five rebounds in just 14 minutes of action.

Both guard Aaliyah Prince and guard Sydney Nunley chipped in 10 points and five rebounds apiece. Forward Dala Allen scored eight points with guard Truth Taylor distributing four assists.

The Lions remain on the road Wednesday for a game at Southern Nazarene University.