ATLANTA, Ga. -- Despite an early lead, the Panthers came up short in a 5-2 loss against Georgia Tech in game one of the I-75 Challenge on Thursday afternoon.

Makayla Stephens (4-3) came out of the bullpen for Georgia State (5-6) and took the loss. Briana Bower was a bright spot for the Panthers, starting the ballgame and throwing 2.2 scoreless innings, allowing one hit, with no walks and one strikeout.

At the plate, the Panthers were led by Lauren Brister, who went 1-for-3 on the day with a home run and an RBI. Bella Morton compiled a standout day at the plate as well, going 1-for-2 with a double. Maia Mumpfield also helped out for Georgia State, putting together two hits in three trips to the plate.

HOW IT HAPPENED

The Panthers got the scoring started early, putting one run on the board in the top of the first inning. McKenzie Walker came across to score the lone run of the inning for Georgia State and get them on the board.

The Yellow Jackets failed to push any runs across before the Panthers offense got back to their scoring ways the next inning. Brister came across to score the lone run of the inning for Georgia State, which brought the Panthers lead to 2-0. The Panthers were unable to hold the lead, as Georgia Tech scored five times over the remaining five innings to grab the 5-2 win.

GAME NOTES

» Georgia State's highest scoring inning was the second, when it pushed one run across.
» Georgia State pitchers faced 26 Georgia Tech hitters in the game, allowing six ground balls and 10 fly balls while striking out one.
» Brister led the Panthers at the plate, going 1 for 3 with a home run and an RBI.
» Georgia Tech was led offensively by senior Addison Leschber, who went 1 for 3 with a home run and two RBIs.
» Senior Kenley Hilleary led the Yellow Jackets pitching staff, throwing three scoreless innings.

The Panthers host Yale in a double header for their home opener on Friday, Feb. 20 at 1:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.