ABILENE, TX – The McMurry War Hawks women's basketball team showed incredible heart and determination on the road, battling rival Hardin-Simmons to a thrilling 75-74 final score at the Mabee Complex. Despite a fierce comeback attempt that saw them erase an 11-point deficit and even take a brief lead late in the game, the War Hawks ultimately fell just short.

Hardin-Simmons seized early momentum, using a massive 9-0 run in the first period to build a solid lead. The Cowgirls maintained this advantage throughout the second quarter, largely thanks to strong interior scoring and an offensive slump that saw the War Hawks shoot just 20% from the field. HSU pushed its lead to its largest margin of 11 points midway through the third period.

However, McMurry refused to concede. The team came alive in the second half, outscoring Hardin-Simmons in both the third and fourth periods. The War Hawks combined a relentless defensive effort with an explosive offensive surge in the final period, including a 10-0 run that shifted the momentum and put McMurry ahead by four points with less than five minutes remaining.

While the Cowgirls managed to regain the lead in the final moments, the biggest story for the War Hawks was their incredible execution at the charity stripe. McMurry finished the contest with a perfect 19-for-19 (100%) from the free-throw line, keeping them in striking distance until the very last possession. The team also displayed excellent transition play, scoring 18 fast break points.

Top War Hawk Performers

• Helena Chadwick: Played all 40 minutes, and led the team with a game-high 30 points, shooting 10-of-23 from the field, and going a perfect 8-for-8 from the free-throw line. 
• Aryana Cleveland: Provided a consistent and efficient scoring effort, totaling 14 points and pulling down seven rebounds. She was also perfect from the line, sinking all 8-of-8 free-throw attempts.
• Amaris Valadez: Contributed 13 points off the bench, shooting a highly efficient 5-of-8 from the field, including 2-of-3 from three-point range.
• Jordan Bravo: Played all 40 minutes, scoring 13 points, including a half-court shot to close out the 1st quarter. She was also 2-for-2 at the free-throw line.

Up Next

War Hawks will next face Sul Ross State in Alpine, TX, on Tuesday, December 16, at 5:00 p.m. at the Gallego Center.