Florida Atlantic University (8-6, 2-1 in Conference USA) could not earn their third conference win against Middle Tennessee State, losing 101-69.

The Owls started off the game well with sophomore guard Shaneese Bailey carrying the load, scoring 17 of the first 26 points for FAU in the first period.

The MTSU defense stifled the Owls into tough shots and turnovers, holding them to 36 percent shooting from the field and 10 first-half turnovers.

Junior forward Alison Gorrell, the Owls leading scorer this year, only attempted two shots in the period, going 0-of-2 in that time. She finished with just four points, shooting 2-of-8 from the field.

The size advantage of MTSU (9-4, 3-0 in Conference USA) was also on full display as they out-rebounded the Owls 25-16 in the period. The Blue Raiders grabbed 12 offensive rebounds that led to second chances and opportunities to score for them.

The game started off more or less evenly, the score 21-26 with nine minutes left in the period. MTSU finished the half on a 27-10 run, bringing the score to 53-31 at halftime.

In the second half, the Blue Raider advantage inside became more evident as the rebounding margin ballooned 50-29 in favor of MTSU.

MTSU was able to score in the post and find open shooters on the perimeter. Senior forward Cheyenne Parker played well, scoring 26 points, grabbing 18 rebounds (10 of those being offensive) and blocking three shots.

The Owls struggled from the 3-point line, shooting 5-of-21 for the game. Guard Shaneese Bailey continued her three game streak of 20 or more points scored, scoring 27 for the night. Up next for the Owls is a road game against Western Kentucky on Jan. 15.