The Salem University women's basketball team dropped a 66-48 decision to Fairmont State University Saturday afternoon at Joe Retton Arena.

Salem (3-22) battled early and trailed by just four after the opening quarter, 15-11. The Tigers found their rhythm in the second period, outscoring the Falcons 15-12 to cut the deficit to 27-26 at halftime.

The game turned in the third quarter as Fairmont State used a 19-9 frame to create separation. The Falcons shot 50 percent from the field and 60 percent from three-point range in the quarter, extending their lead to 46-35 heading into the final period. Fairmont closed the game with a 20-13 fourth quarter to secure the victory.

Tigers Leaders

Selena Frost led Salem with 16 points on 6-of-12 shooting, adding five assists and four steals in 37 minutes of action. Meilin Guo followed with 14 points and three rebounds, while Akhia Miller contributed five points and four rebounds.

Batoul Khaleefah provided a spark off the bench with eight rebounds and four points, helping Salem hold a 30-37 rebounding margin. The Tigers scored 22 points in the paint and forced 16 steals defensively.

By the Numbers

Salem shot 38.6 percent from the field (17-of-44) and 27.3 percent from three-point range. The Tigers converted 11-of-20 attempts at the free throw line. Fairmont State capitalized on turnovers, scoring 32 points off miscues, which proved to be a key difference in the contest.

After trailing by just one at the break, Salem was unable to overcome the Falcons' third-quarter surge.

The Tigers will look to regroup as they prepare for their next contest.