Crusaders Defeat Austin College to Secure 5th Seed in SCAC Championship

SHERMAN, Texas - The University of Dallas women's basketball team won their conference matchup against Austin College 54-43 on Saturday.  they finish the regular season with an 11-13 overall record and a 7-9 record in conference play.

The Crusaders jumped out to a 10-0 after six minutes and never looked back, as they remained firmly in control for the entire first half.  Their stifling defense held the Roos to just 17 points in the first 20 minutes, good enough for an 11-point advantage at the half.

Things were much more even in the second half as Austin began to find some form on offense.  Dallas matched them blow for blow to maintain their lead, completing the season sweep of Austin.

Tessa Hastings and Adryan Alvarez led all players with 11 points.  Imani Hardin led all players with 11 rebounds, with Jordan Gillespie right behind with 10.

With this win, the Crusaders have secured the fifth seed in the SCAC Championship Tournament, making it twice in two seasons Dallas has made it to the postseason.  It's the first time they've made the conference tournament in a full-length season since 2015, when they were also the fifth seed with a 7-7 conference record.

Their 11-13 record on the year is also their best since the 2014-15 season when they posted a 14-12 record, the last time the program had a winning record.

The Conference Championship will be held next weekend at Trinity University.  The Crusaders will face the four seed, Texas Lutheran, on Friday, Feb. 24 at 12:00 p.m.