ABILENE, TX – McMurry fought through a high-intensity conference match-up on Sunday afternoon, ultimately falling 72-64 to Texas Lutheran University at Kimbrell Arena. The contest was a defensive struggle that featured four lead changes and four ties as both teams battled for position in the SCAC standings.

The War Hawks established an early rhythm, jumping out to a 23-11 lead after the first period. McMurry's defensive pressure remained a constant factor, forcing 17 turnovers and converting those miscues into 18 points. The War Hawks also excelled in transition, outscoring the Bulldogs 12-4 in fast-break opportunities. Despite the early momentum, Texas Lutheran relied on a strong performance at the free-throw line late in the game to secure the victory.

Helana Chadwick led the offensive charge for McMurry, finishing with a team-high 20 points while playing the full 40 minutes. Chadwick proved efficient from beyond the arc, connecting on three triples, and served as the primary facilitator with five assists. Defensively, she was a constant disruptor, recording four steals.

Jordan Bravo provided consistent production on both ends of the floor, totaling 12 points and matching the team lead with five assists. Bravo knocked down two critical three-pointers and contributed four rebounds. Her defensive activity helped fuel the McMurry transition game, as she finished the afternoon with two steals.

Jordan Gillespie turned in a remarkably efficient performance, finishing a perfect 4-of-4 from the field for 10 points. Gillespie was lethal from distance, hitting both of her three-point attempts, and anchored the effort on the glass with six rebounds. She also added a block and a steal to her well-rounded stat line.

POSTGAME NOTES

• Helana Chadwick led all scorers with 20 points and added 4 steals in 40 minutes of action.
• Jordan Gillespie finished the game with a perfect 100% shooting percentage from the field and the three-point line.
• The War Hawks forced 17 turnovers, resulting in 18 points off turnovers.
• McMurry's bench contributed 7 points, including a three-pointer from Ashlynn Galvin.

UP NEXT 
The War Hawks head to Conway, Arkansas, for the first round of the conference tournament. McMurry will face Hendrix at Hendrix College on Friday, February 27th, with tip-off scheduled for 5:00 p.m.

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