The Cougars defense did not allow the Chargers to score a single point in the fourth quarter helping to take a 58-45 home victory this afternoon.

Cleveland State (6-6, 4-3) clamped down the defense in the final quarter and played well on that side of the ball all game causing Columbia State (3-13, 3-5) to turn it over 26 times while tallying 15 total steals.

"I'm so proud of this team and their desire to win is undeniable," head coach Lisa Phillips said. "I thought we executed our defensive plan well and offensively stayed disciplined in our sets allowing us to score at the right time."

Four Cougars scored in double figures with Mackenzie Brenier leading the way with 17 points to go along with seven rebounds. Jordan McCullough controlled the glass with nine rebounds finishing one shy of a double-double.

The conference's leading scorer Nisea Burrell scored 16 for the Chargers with 12 of those coming from the free throw line where she was a perfect 12-12. Cleveland State was able to hold Burrell under her season average and kept any other Columbia State players from putting up double digits in scoring.

Cleveland State held the Chargers to 25 percent shooting from the field on 51 shots while the Cougars were able to produce a 41 percent shooting percentage on 58 attempts.

"We played team ball tonight and that will be key for us to continue finding success," Phillips said.

Cleveland State is back in action this Wednesday when they host first place Chattanooga State (16-1, 7-1). Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m.