WEST POINT, N.Y. — Lex Therien scored 16 points and Koi Sims added 12, but Loyola University Maryland's second-half push wasn't enough as Army West Point pulled away for a 61-48 victory Wednesday night at Christl Arena.

Loyola (11-15, 7-8 Patriot League) showed resilience throughout, trimming a 14-point second-quarter deficit to five midway through the third period behind a determined effort in the paint.

Therien was a steady presence inside, finishing 7 of 10 from the field while adding eight rebounds. Sims shot 6 for 10 and helped ignite Loyola's best stretch late in the first quarter, when the Greyhounds used an 8-2 burst to briefly take the lead.

Kimmie Hicks chipped in 11 points, including a key 3-pointer during a second-quarter rally that cut Army's lead to single digits. Loyola shot 58.3% in the second quarter and closed the half on a strong note to trail 32-25 at the break.

The Greyhounds continued to battle after halftime. Therien scored seven points during a third-quarter surge, converting a three-point play and capitalizing on second-chance opportunities to bring Loyola within 37-32. Sims followed with back-to-back baskets inside to keep the pressure on.

Army (21-5, 12-3) used a decisive run late in the third quarter to create separation, building a double-digit advantage heading into the final period. Despite holding the Black Knights to seven points in the fourth quarter, Loyola couldn't overcome the deficit.

Army was led by Reganne Reardon who had 16 points, while Kya Smith had 14 points in the win. 

Loyola returns to Reitz Arena on Sunday afternoon, when they host Colgate for their annual National Women In Sports Day game.