Howard Payne University’s Bria Neal posted a new career high of 29 points in a 77-72 loss to Belhaven University Thursday evening in conference action.

HPU’s Bria Neal scored a career-high 29 points along with 12 rebounds and five assists in the Lady Jacket loss to the Blazers. Neal was 15 of 18 at the free-throw line in the game.

The Lady Jackets held a 57-51 advantage going into the fourth quarter, but the Blazers chipped away at the lead. HPU trailed by one, 72-71 with a 1:06 remaining in the game but Belhaven held down the stretch for the 77-72 win.

HPU outrebounded Belhaven 46-32 in the game but 25 Lady Jacket turnovers and 19.0% shooting from behind the arc proved to be a difference in the game.

Following Neal was Amanda Turpin with nine points and Elaina Buchanan with eight rebounds for the Lady Jackets.

Belhaven was led by Nyah Davis with 17 points and Shomaria Overton with 12 points and 11 rebounds.

Howard Payne is now 3-9 overall and 1-5 in American Southwest Conference play. Belhaven stands at 7-3 overall and 2-3 in league action. The Lady Jackets will be at East Texas Baptist in Marshall on Saturday to finish out their road trip.

(courtesy Howard Payne Sports Information)