ABILENE, Texas – Hardin-Simmons' women's basketball team held off Arlington Baptist 95-90 in non-conference action at the Mabee Complex on Monday evening.

The Cowgirls jumped out to a quick 24-9 lead in the first quarter, before Arlington Baptist chipped away at the deficit and the Patriots eventually cut it to 33-29 midway through the second quarter. HSU maintained the lead and eventually led 51-43 at halftime.

The game was tied at 56 and the Cowgirls responded with three straight 3-pointers. At the end of three quarters, HSU led 71-69.

In the fourth quarter, the Cowgirls executed down the stretch. Kiana Reed had a pair of big buckets to put the Cowgirls up 85-79 with 2:31 to play. HSU was able to close out the game at the foul line.

Zayda Gonzalez had 31 points for ABC and Aaliyiah Clark added 25.

All five HSU starters finished in double figures. Kaitlyn Ellis had 19 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks and Karlea Ritchie added 17 points and 17 rebounds. Maria Fernandez had 15 points, Taylor Gaffney added 13 and Ryan Bush chipped in with 12.

The Cowgirls are 17-7 on the year and will close the regular season at McMurry on Saturday at 1 p.m.

--- www.hsuathletics.com ---