After securing the No. 7 seed in the Western Athletic Conference Tournament in Las Vegas, the Southern Utah University women’s basketball team faced off against Tarleton State University on Wednesday, Mar. 11. Southern Utah fought hard but fell short 59-40.
With the loss, Southern Utah is eliminated from playoff contention and their season comes to a close. Tarleton State will face the winner of California Baptist University and University of Texas at Arlington.
First quarter
It was a defensive juggernaut in the first quarter, with both teams combining for just two field goals through the first five minutes of play. Sierra Chambers dropped two free-throws and a three to take an 11-6 lead late.
Niki Van Wyk responded with a three of her own before the buzzer, cutting the lead to 11-9 after one.
Second quarter
Both teams continued to struggle in the second quarter offensively. SUU went scoreless through the first seven minutes, but a three from Sydney Gandy tied things up at 14.
One free-throw and a layup with 30 seconds left in the half by Faith Acker gave Tarleton State a 21-16 lead.
Third quarter
Tarleton State came out of halftime with some momentum, extending their lead to 12 points late in the third. Determined to keep it close, Southern Utah didn’t back down.
Daylani Ballena scored five quick points, leading SUU on a 10-4 run to cut the lead to 37-31 at the end of the third.
Fourth quarter
Despite SUU’s strong efforts, Tarleton State found their groove in the fourth. The Texans outscored SUU 22-9, leading to the elimination of Southern Utah 59-40.
Key statistics
— Gandy and Ballena led SUU with nine points each
— Miannah Little and Acker led all players with 16 points each
— Southern Utah scored a season-low 40 points
Author: Jack Paul
Photographer: SUU Athletics
Editor: SUU News Copy Editor
