MOUNT OLIVE – The University of Mount Olive women's basketball team battled throughout four quarters but ultimately fell to Conference Carolinas foe Belmont Abbey, 72–60, on Monday afternoon inside Kornegay Arena.

The Trojans came out strong, setting the tone early and taking a 17–13 lead after the opening quarter. Mount Olive shot efficiently in the first 10 minutes and controlled the tempo, led by strong interior play from Jerin Truesdale and balanced scoring across the lineup.
UMO was on fire in the first shooting 70 percent (7-of-10) from the floor, knocking down their one three-point attempt, whilst knocking down each of their two free throws.

Belmont Abbey responded in the second quarter, using a 21-point frame to swing momentum heading into halftime. Despite solid offensive contributions from Jada Priebe and Savannah McAfee, the Crusaders capitalized on second-chance opportunities and turnovers to take a 34–30 lead at the break.

The third quarter proved pivotal, as Belmont Abbey extended its advantage with a 24-point period, building a lead that grew to as many as 16. Mount Olive continued to compete, with Priebe attacking the basket and Truesdale providing a steady presence in the paint, but the Trojans were unable to fully close the gap.

Mount Olive showed resilience in the fourth quarter, outscoring Belmont Abbey 16–14 over the final 10 minutes. The Trojans continued to push the pace and fight on the glass, but the early deficit proved too much to overcome.

Priebe led Mount Olive with a team-high 18 points, while Truesdale added 13 points on an efficient shooting night. McAfee chipped in eight points, and Jayla Hicks contributed across the stat sheet with eight points, four assists, and two steals.
Mount Olive finished the game shooting 43 percent from the field and matched Belmont Abbey with six three-pointers, but the Crusaders held an edge in rebounds and second-chance points.

The Trojans stay home to face the Braves of UNC Pembroke Wednesday at 5 p.m. in Kornegay Arena.