Women’s Basketball Defeats Florida Atlantic in South Florida Matchup

Women’s Basketball Defeats Florida Atlantic in South Florida Matchup

Arthur Jones
Arthur Jones
Published: Dec 15, 2025

FIU women’s basketball pulled away late to beat in-state rival Florida Atlantic 80–63 on Monday night.

A strong fourth quarter, including an 11–1 scoring run, helped FIU secure the win, with Parris Atkins leading the way with 20 points.

Florida Atlantic started the game well, shooting efficiently in the first half and taking a 41–37 lead at halftime. FIU stayed close thanks to Atkins, who had 16 points before the break. The Panthers gained momentum in the third quarter and took the lead after a three-pointer by Judit Valero, then held onto it for the rest of the game.

After Florida Atlantic tied the score at the end of the third quarter, FIU responded quickly in the fourth with a 6–1 run, followed by another 11–1 stretch that sealed the Panthers’ first road win of the season. FIU outscored the Owls 25–8 in the final 10 minutes.

Rhema Collins delivered a standout performance with 16 points and a career-high 16 rebounds, recording her fifth double-double of the season. Denika Lightbourne added 16 points, while Grecia Ferrer Leal chipped in 12.

FIU controlled the game by winning the rebounding battle, forcing turnovers, and scoring more points in the paint, which helped them pull away late.