IRVING, TX – The McMurry War Hawks relied on a suffocating defensive performance and a relentless attack in the paint to dismantle the University of Dallas, 60-30, on Saturday night at the Maher Athletic Center.

The War Hawks' defense was the story of the game, holding the Crusaders to a mere 30 points on 17.2% shooting from the field. McMurry established control early, but it was a massive final period that put the game away, as the War Hawks outscored Dallas 25-10 to close out the contest. The physicality of the War Hawks was evident throughout, as they dominated the rebounding battle 43-32 and scored 46 of their 60 points inside the paint.

Aryana Cleveland set the pace for the offense, finishing with a team-high 12 points while pulling down seven rebounds. Cleveland was efficient in her 33 minutes of action, consistently finding ways to finish near the rim and adding three assists to her stat line. Her presence in the middle made it difficult for the Dallas defense to find any answers.

Jordan Bravo turned in a monster all-around performance, securing a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Bravo was the catalyst for the defensive pressure, leading the team with four steals and a block. Her ability to jumpstart the transition game following defensive stops allowed McMurry to maintain a double-digit lead for the majority of the night.

Helana Chadwick matched the intensity on the perimeter, also recording 10 points and four steals. Chadwick was the primary facilitator for the War Hawk offense, dishing out a team-high three assists while contributing to the defensive effort that forced 19 total turnovers. Her poise in the open floor helped McMurry capitalize on fast-break opportunities late in the game.

McMurry's depth was on full display as they wore down the Crusaders with constant pressure. The win marks the 11th conference victory for the War Hawks as they continue their strong run through the SCAC schedule.

POSTGAME NOTES

• Aryana Cleveland led all scorers with 12 points and 7 rebounds.
• Jordan Bravo notched a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.
• Helana Chadwick tallied 10 points and 4 steals in the win.
• Jordan Gillespie anchored the glass with a team-high 13 rebounds.
• McMurry outscored Dallas in the paint 46-12.

UP NEXT 
The War Hawks will return home to face Concordia University in their next conference game on Friday, February 20, at 7:30 p.m. ET.

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