CANYON, Texas – Three players scored in double figures as University of Arkansas – Fort Smith Women's Basketball dropped its Lone Star Conference opener Thursday, 79-69, at No. 3 West Texas A&M.

Guard Nya Stewart led the Lions with 13 points by shooting 9-for-9 from the free throw line while guard Riley Hayes added 12 points on four threes. Guard Rodrea Echols was the third in double figures with 10 points off the bench.

The first quarter proved to be the difference, as the Buffs outscored the Lions 20-8 in the opening 10 minutes. UAFS shot just 28.6 percent in the quarter.

Despite trailing by as many as 16 in the second quarter, the Lions cut the deficit to seven at 32-25 with just over two minutes left in the half. However, the Buffs closed the half on a 6-0 run.

WT grew the lead two 22 in the third quarter, but the Lions once again cut back into the lead, ending the third quarter on a 10-2 run. The Lions then shot 57.1 percent in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Buffs, 26-22.

Forward Sinetra Jones added eight points and eight rebounds while guard Aaliyah Prince contributed eight points and seven rebounds. Guard Hannah Boyett had seven points, as well.

UAFS continues its weekend by visiting Lubbock Christian at 1 p.m. Saturday.