COCHRAN, Ga. - Faulkner (6-3, 0-1 SSAC) overcame an early first-half deficit to hold a halftime lead, but hot-shooting by Middle Georgia State (3-3, 1-0 SSAC) down the stretch cliched the 64-59 victory for the Knights here in the Southern States Athletic Conference opener here this evening.

The Lady Eagles sparked an 18-2 run deep in the first quarter that helped catapult the visitors into a 26-21 lead by the break. 

A back and forth battle ensued through the bulk of the second half until Middle Georgia ignited a run of its own. The Knights outscored the Lady Eagles 2-to-1 in the final six minutes of play to secure the conference win.

China Leary led Faulkner offensively with 14 points and added six rebounds and four assists.

Faith LeGate followed with 12 points and four boards.

Olivia Adamson was a defensive juggernaut with 19 rebounds, 14 of which came on the defensive end of play. The senior also contributed eight points.

Faulkner will next travel to Gainesville, Ga., to take on Brenau in SSAC action at 1 p.m. central on Saturday.