The Cougar's women's basketball team took control in overtime to win their home conference opener.

Cleveland State (3-1, 1-1) clamped down on defense holding Southwest Tennessee (4-2, 1-1) to two points in the extra period securing a 66-57 victory.

"I'm so proud of this team today," head coach Lisa Phillips said. "Their ability to play through adversity proved that they can play anybody on any given day and beat them."

The Cougars were up 13 points heading into the fourth quarter, but the Saluqis stormed back tying the game.

In overtime, Jarnyria Maddox put in half of the Cougars points while also coming up with a steal and a rebound. Maddox and Jordan McCullough each scored a game high 16 points. McCullough added six rebounds and six steals.

"Jay Maddox took control of the game in overtime which helped secured the win," Phillips said. "Jordan McCullogh gave us great minutes rebounding well and knocking down buckets keeping us in the game."

The defense caused Southwest Tennesse to turn the ball over 18 times while Cleveland State committed just six turnovers.

"It was really a team effort," Phillips said. "We will continue to work hard and get better."

The Cougars will take off this week before returning to the court playing a conference game at Walters State (1-2, 0-1) on Wednesday November 29. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m.