LAKELAND, Fla. — Southeastern women's basketball came up short against Nelson University, falling 83-76 Friday night at The Furnace.

The Fire opened the game with an early offensive push, with Grace Pitzer and Mafalda Chambel leading the way. Pitzer connected from beyond the arc, while Chambel added two three-pointers in the first quarter. Southeastern battled throughout the opening period but trailed 24-21 entering the second.

SEU continued to trade baskets with the Lions in the second quarter. The team worked its way back into the lead behind contributions from across the lineup, including scores from Pitzer, Chambel and Rylie Homan. Sarah Davis added a three-pointer, while the Fire kept the contest close heading into halftime, trailing 43-41.

Nelson created separation in the third quarter, using a strong offensive stretch to build a 14-point advantage. Ashley Gonzalez led the Lions' scoring attack, connecting from long range as Nelson extended its lead. Southeastern continued to fight back, with Davis and Alley Haas each knocking down three-pointers to help keep the Fire within reach. Nelson held a 68-58 advantage entering the final quarter.

The Fire continued to battle in the fourth, looking to erase the deficit. Davis contributed from the floor and the free-throw line, while Pitzer added key baskets. However, Nelson maintained its advantage down the stretch to secure the 83-76 victory.

Davis led the Fire with 20 points, including four three-pointers, while Pitzer finished with 19 points. Chambel added 12 points and eight rebounds, and Eva Bishop recorded a team-high 12 rebounds to go with seven points. SEU finished with 40 rebounds and shot 39.3% from the field.

Nelson was led by Gonzalez's 18 points, while Kate Miller recorded 15 points and 11 rebounds. The Lions shot 33.3% from three-point range and converted 18 of 20 free throws.