MISENHEIMER, N.C. (Feb. 11, 2026) — Ava Hairston scored 16 points and Lettie Michael added 12 as Pfeiffer held off Methodist 59–53 on Wednesday night in USA South women's basketball action at Merner Gym. 

Pfeiffer (12–9, 9–5 USA South) used a strong first half — including a 19–16 opening quarter and a 17–11 second period — to build an early cushion. The Falcons led 36–27 at halftime after converting consistently in the paint and capitalizing on turnovers.

Hairston was a force on both ends, finishing with a game-high six steals while shooting 6 of 9 from the field and 4 of 5 at the line. Michael hit two 3-pointers and logged four rebounds and two assists. Kaileigh Gunter added nine points and six rebounds, and Nyree Bell chipped in eight points and three assists.

Methodist (8–14, 7–8) was led by Jada Richardson, who poured in a game-high 22 points on 11-for-15 shooting and grabbed seven rebounds. The Monarchs rallied late, outscoring Pfeiffer 18–10 in the fourth quarter, but couldn't erase the deficit after trailing by as many as 15. Kayleen Grullon had 12 points, five rebounds and five steals, while Jehari Jacobs added five boards.

Pfeiffer's defense proved decisive, forcing 24 Methodist turnovers and converting them into 20 points. The Falcons also dominated in transition, tallying 23 fast-break points to Methodist's five. 

The Falcons will continue USA South play on Saturday, Feb.14 when they travel to Winston-Salem, N.C. to take on Salem College at 2:00 p.m.