DELAND, Fla. — Natalie Fox and Monet Dance scored 20 points each as William & Mary defeated Stetson 81-75 to win its fifth straight game on Friday afternoon at the Edmunds Center.

The game started off with the Tribe (6-4) establishing an early presence, as Fox scored a layup just 11 seconds into the quarter, assisted by Dance. Despite Fox's efforts, including a block at 9:03, the Hatters responded with a series of 3-pointers, leading to a timeout by the Green and Gold with 7:07 remaining after trailing 11-4. 

W&M narrowed the gap with an 8–3 run, highlighted by Cassidy Geddes' jumper and Jana Sallman's back-to-back baskets, tying the score at 14 with 1:33 left. However, the Hatters (6-3) regained momentum with a closing stretch of 7 consecutive points, ending the quarter ahead 21-14.

The Tribe mounted a strong comeback in the second quarter, narrowing the gap with an 18-point effort inside the paint. Geddes sparked the momentum with a 3-pointer at 7:16, setting the stage for a series of key plays. Sallman contributed significantly, scoring multiple baskets including a crucial layup at 3:43 to keep the pressure on the Hatters. Despite the competitive push, W&M trailed 38-35 at the end of the half.

The Green and Gold surged ahead early in the third quarter with a 3-pointer by Alexa Mikeska at 9:38, following a turnover by Stetson. Sallman contributed significantly with a tip-in and two free throws, leveling the score at 42-42. As the quarter progressed, Dance hit back-to-back 3-pointers, and Kyah Smith added another from beyond the arc, extending their lead to 56-53 by 2:38. Despite a late push by the Hatters, the Tribe maintained their advantage, ending the quarter tied 60-60.

W&M seized control in the fourth with a pivotal late-game surge. Dance's consecutive free throws at 2:12 put them ahead 72-70, sparking a decisive stretch. Fox was instrumental, scoring key layups and converting a crucial free throw at 1:01, extending the lead to 77-73. Despite Stetson's resistance, W&M's defense stood firm, allowing the team to maintain their advantage. Dance sealed the win with two free throws in the final second.

STAT NUGGETS

• Fox' 20 was a career-high, eclipsing the 18 she scored in her last outing vs. Coppin State (Dec. 13).
• Sallman had a double-double with 19 points and 13 rebounds, plus six assists.
• Dance added four assists.
• Geddes chipped in 10 points with three helpers and two steals.
• The Tribe had a season-low nine turnovers.
• W&M won points in the paint 42-26 and second-chance points 16-7.