Howard Payne closed out the regular season Saturday afternoon with a 90 to 65 conference loss on the road to the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton.

Despite the final score, the Yellow Jackets saw strong individual performances to cap the regular season. Caitlyn Parsons delivered an efficient offensive showing, pouring in 22 points on 9 of 13 shooting while pulling down nine rebounds to lead the team on the glass. Her presence inside helped Howard Payne stay competitive through stretches of the game.

Hope Hermesmeyer added 14 points and knocked down two three-pointers, providing a perimeter spark and steady scoring throughout the contest. Caitlyn Panuco finished with 12 points, attacking the paint and adding another outside shot to keep the offense balanced.

Kaley Nicholson contributed eight points, including a pair of three-pointers, helping stretch the floor and create spacing opportunities.

As a team, Howard Payne shot over 42 percent from the field and connected on seven three-pointers. The Yellow Jackets also received 14 points from the bench and generated 10 points off turnovers, showing continued fight and effort in the final regular season conference matchup.

"We didn't get the result we wanted tonight, but I'm proud of how our group kept competing," said head coach Rodney Gee. "Caitlyn Parsons set the tone with her efficiency and toughness on the glass, and we had multiple players step up and contribute. This team has grown a lot through conference play. Now it's about carrying that fight and togetherness into The ASC Tournament and making the most of the opportunity in front of us."

With the regular season now complete, the Yellow Jackets turn their focus ahead as they prepare for The ASC Tournament on Friday, February 27th in Abilene, TX.