FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (Jan. 3, 2026) — Pfeiffer University saw a double-digit lead slip away in the second half as Methodist rallied for a 53-52 victory Saturday in USA South women's basketball action at the Riddle Center.

The Falcons (6-4, 4-1 USA South) appeared in control midway through the third quarter, building a 39-27 advantage behind Miya Horton's relentless play. Horton finished with a game-high 20 points, eight steals, and seven rebounds, sparking a defense that forced 26 turnovers and converted them into 18 points.

Ava Hairston added 13 points and hit Pfeiffer's only two 3-pointers, including one early in the third that gave the Falcons momentum. Pfeiffer dominated the glass with a 51-45 rebounding edge, pulling down 21 offensive boards, but shot just 26.1% from the field and committed 26 turnovers of its own.

Methodist (4-8, 3-2) clawed back in the fourth quarter, outscoring Pfeiffer 15-13. Jada Richardson led the Monarchs with 18 points and 11 rebounds, while Taylor Watford scored 10 off the bench, including two free throws with 10 seconds left to give Methodist the lead for good. Pfeiffer had one final possession but turned the ball over before the buzzer.
The game featured six ties and six lead changes. Pfeiffer outscored Methodist 30-30 in the paint and 13-10 in fast-break points, but the Monarchs' bench contributed 20 points compared to eight for the Falcons.

Pfeiffer will return to play on Tuesday, Jan. 6 with a 5:30 p.m. road game at Meredith College in Raleigh, N.C.