COCHRAN, Ga. – The University of North Georgia (UNG) women's basketball team received strong individual performances Wednesday night but suffered its first Peach Belt Conference loss of the season in a 78-61 defeat at Middle Georgia.

The Knights opened the game with a 7-0 run before the Nighthawks responded with baskets from Averie Jones and Hannah Cail to stay within reach. North Georgia cut the deficit to five with 3:53 remaining in the second quarter, but Middle Georgia closed the half with timely scoring to take a 45-33 advantage into halftime.

Middle Georgia maintained its momentum in the third quarter, extending its lead to as many as 21 points with 2:39 left in the period.

North Georgia matched the Knights with 13 points in the fourth quarter but was unable to close the gap.

Jones led the Nighthawks with a game-high 21 points to go along with four rebounds and three assists. Jaleah Storr added 13 points and paced the defensive effort with seven rebounds.

With the loss, North Georgia fell to 12-6 overall and 7-1 in PBC play.

Kennedi Hawkins led Middle Georgia (12-3, 5-3 PBC) with a double-double of 15 points and 14 rebounds.

The Nighthawks return to action Saturday with a PBC road matchup at USC Beaufort. Tipoff is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 17.