Taylor Hodges, Sports Information Director

HENDERSON – No. 1 Freed-Hardeman (18-0, 12-0 AMC) defeated visiting Lindenwood University-Belleville (7-12, 7-6) 63-48 on Thursday evening, behind a career-high 20 points from freshman Amaria Pugh.

15 of Pugh's points came in the first half alone, with the Lady Lions taking a 41-20 lead into the locker room at the break.

Freed's defense would hold the Lynx to just eight points in the third quarter, but the visitors would make an attempt at a monumental comeback in the final quarter.

While the Lynx outscored the Lady Lions 20-9 in the final period, it wasn't enough to return home with the upset.

Pugh was followed by Haylee Croom, who recorded her third straight double-double with 13 points and 13 rebounds.

Chynia Brooks finished the contest with 14 points.

The Lady Lions will be at home on Saturday when they take on Harris-Stowe State. Tipoff is set for 1 p.m.