Howard Payne Lady Jackets' season came to an end Saturday in the American Southwest Conference championship game, falling 73-46 to host Hardin-Simmons at the Mabee Complex in Abilene, Texas.
The Lady Jackets jumped out of the gates with energy, controlling the early pace and matching the Cowgirls through much of the first quarter. Behind strong play from Hope Hermesmeyer, who scored 18 points and grabbed seven rebounds, Howard Payne led at times before Hardin-Simmons opened a lead late in the period.
As the game progressed, the Cowgirls' depth and efficiency began to tilt the momentum. Hardin-Simmons used a balanced attack to push the margin in the second quarter, outscoring Howard Payne 24-6 and carrying a double-digit lead into halftime. From there the Cowgirls maintained control, extending their advantage behind timely baskets and defensive pressure.
Caitlyn Panuco added 11 points and three rebounds for Howard Payne, and Caitlyn Parsons chipped in seven points while pulling down a team-high nine rebounds. Azaylee Santos and Kaley Nicholson also contributed on the stat line with hustle and energy throughout. Lady Jackets shot a solid 74.1% from the free throw line, hitting key shots down the stretch.Â
"I'm proud of the way our team competed all weekend." Exclaimed Head Coach Rodney Gee. "Playing a championship game on the host team's floor is never easy, but our group showed heart from start to finish. We didn't shoot it the way we wanted to tonight, but our effort and togetherness never wavered. This game doesn't define our season. The growth, the resilience, and the standard we set for Lady Jacket basketball this year is what I'll remember. We'll learn from this, we'll get better, and we'll be back in this position again."
Saturday's matchup marked a proud march through the ASC tournament for Howard Payne, who advanced to the championship after a resilient win in the semifinals earlier in the weekend. Though the title game didn't go the Lady Jackets' way, the season stands as a showcase of growth and grit.
