ABILENE, TX – The University of St. Thomas Women's basketball team battled throughout all four quarters Sunday afternoon but came up short in a 76–66 road setback to McMurry at Kimbrell Arena.  The loss moves the Celts to 12–6 overall and 6–5 in SCAC play.

UST faced an early challenge in the first quarter as McMurry opened the game with an aggressive start, building momentum behind strong interior play. Kenna Gibson helped steady the Celts with early perimeter scoring, while Branasia Brazelton and Jaydia Morris worked to generate offense and limit second-chance opportunities. Despite the effort, McMurry carried a 24–12 advantage after the opening quarter.

The Celts responded with improved defensive pressure and more balanced scoring in the second quarter. Yasmine Aly provided a spark off the bench, knocking down timely shots while Macie Whitfield and Morris added key baskets to cut into the deficit. UST outscored McMurry 17–14 in the quarter, trimming the halftime margin to 38–29 and keeping the game within reach.

UST continued to compete coming out of the break in the third quarter with Gibson connecting from beyond the arc and Brazelton attacking the lane to draw contact. The Celts matched McMurry's physicality and kept pace offensively, scoring 16 points in the quarter. However, McMurry answered with timely responses to maintain a 58–45 edge heading into the final period.

The Celts made a final push in the fourth quarter, outscoring McMurry 21–18. Aly stayed hot from the perimeter, while Kameron Goodman brought energy on both ends, creating turnovers and transition chances. UST cut into the lead with consistent pressure, but McMurry was able to close out the game from the free-throw line, resulting in the 76–66 final.

Gibson and Aly led the Celts with 13 points each. Brazelton added 11 points and four assists, while Morris contributed nine points and six rebounds. UST also received solid bench production, accounting for 26 points in the contest.

Up Next
The Celts will look to bounce back as they continue SCAC play at home in the JAAC against Texas Lutheran Friday, February 13, at 7:30PM.