The Southwestern Christian University women's basketball team put together a competitive showing at the NCCAA National Tournament, highlighted by a dramatic one-point win and a dominant offensive performance to close out play.
Game 1: Slow Start Dooms SCU Against Sterling
Sterling 78, SCU 62
SCU opened tournament play against Sterling but struggled to find rhythm early, scoring just seven points in the first quarter and falling behind quickly.
Despite a stronger middle stretch—including a 22-point third quarter—the early deficit proved too much to overcome. Sterling shot nearly 45% from the field and controlled the tempo throughout.
Key Performers:
Sterling's balanced scoring attack and efficient shooting kept SCU from mounting a serious comeback.
Game 2: SCU Holds Off Asbury in Thriller
SCU 71, Asbury 70
SCU responded in a big way with a thrilling one-point victory over Asbury, powered by a dominant first quarter. The Eagles jumped out to a 28-11 lead and never trailed the rest of the way.
Asbury made a late push, outscoring SCU in the fourth quarter, but the Eagles held on in the final moments to secure the win.
Key Performers:
SCU's hot shooting early and clutch defense late proved to be the difference in one of the tournament's most competitive games.
Game 3: Offensive Explosion Lifts SCU Over Paine
SCU 87, Paine College 66
The Eagles closed out their tournament run with their most complete performance, dominating Paine College behind a high-powered offensive effort.
SCU steadily built its lead, highlighted by a 28-point third quarter and a strong finish in the fourth.
Key Performers:
The Eagles shot nearly 48% from the field and showcased depth with 25 bench points in the win.
Tournament Takeaway
SCU finished the NCCAA National Tournament showing resilience and growth. After a tough opening loss, the Eagles bounced back with a clutch win and capped their run with an emphatic offensive performance.
The tournament highlighted SCU's ability to compete at a high level, with standout individual performances and balanced scoring playing a key role in their success.
