JACKSON, Miss. – The Belhaven Women's Basketball team fell to No. 6 Bethel University 74-54 Saturday afternoon in Southern States Athletic Conference play.
 
The Blazers played a close game to the Wildcats through the first 20 minutes, staying within a possession or two from the SSAC leaders until halftime, trailing 35-29 at the break.
 
A large part of that came from Belhaven's 50 percent shooting (9-for-18) from the floor, despite taking 19 less shots than Bethel.
 
However, roles were reversed in the second half as Bethel shot 51 percent from the floor while Belhaven connected on just 29 percent (8-of-28) of its shooting opportunities.
 
Candler Gregory led the way for the Blazers offensively, scoring 11 points in the game. Gregory also pulled down five rebounds and had an assist in 31 minutes.
 
Kenya Wright was the only other Blazer in double figures, scoring 10 points to go along with three rebounds and three assists.
 
TaShayla Steede led Belhaven on the glass, collecting eight rebounds to go along with six points.
 
Ariel Wilson recovered from a scoreless first half to finish with nine points in the game.
 
Bethel outrebounded the Blazers 42-32 in the contest and pulled down 15 offensive rebounds that led to 17 second-chance points. Belhaven finished with just seven second-chance points in the game.
 
The Blazers will look to rebound on Thursday when the Green and Gold welcomes rival William Carey to Rugg Arena. Tip is set for 5:30 p.m.