RALEIGH, N.C. (Feb. 5, 2026) — Ava Hairston scored 22 points and grabbed three rebounds, but Pfeiffer University couldn't overcome a decisive third quarter in a 71–58 loss to William Peace on Thursday night in USA South play at the Hermann Center.

Hairston shot 6-of-20 from the field and added nine free throws for the Falcons, who slipped to 10-8 overall and 7-4 in conference play. She also totaled three assists and three steals. Pfeiffer trailed by just four at halftime, 38–34, but was outscored 21–10 in the third quarter, allowing the Pacers to take control.

Nyree Bell added 10 points and seven rebounds for Pfeiffer, while Miya Horton contributed 14 points, including a 6-for-10 effort at the free-throw line. Lettie Michael chipped in four points, five rebounds and three steals, helping Pfeiffer force 28 William Peace turnovers.

Despite the defensive pressure, the Falcons struggled offensively, shooting just 19-of-68 (27.9%) from the floor and 2-of-15 from three-point range. Pfeiffer converted 18-of-26 free-throw attempts and posted 35 total rebounds, including 17 on the offensive glass.

William Peace (12-9, 9-4 USA South) leaned on a standout performance from Zikira Henderson, who scored a game-high 27 points. Ensley Perry added 17, and Jess Worthey and Amiah Griffin each grabbed eight rebounds.

Pfeiffer will look to rebound from the loss when they hit the road for a 2:00 p.m. game at Mary Baldwin on Saturday, Feb. 7.