ABILENE, Texas – Hardin-Simmons' Cowgirl basketball team opened its 2025-26 campaign Friday night at the Mabee Complex, falling to Texas Lutheran 72-66 in a tightly contested non-conference matchup.
 
The Cowgirls started strong, taking a 43-35 lead into halftime after shooting 41 percent from the field and connecting on eight first-half three-pointers.
 
Texas Lutheran responded in the third quarter, outscoring Hardin-Simmons 17-9 to seize momentum heading into the final frame. Despite several late surges from the Cowgirls, the Bulldogs held on for the six-point win 72-66.
 
Sophomore guard Dylan Koele led Hardin-Simmons with a career-high 17 points, including five three-pointers, and added three assists.
 
Senior guard Caroline Croft recorded 11 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, while Abbie Crow contributed ten points and five rebounds.
 
As a team, Hardin-Simmons shot 34 percent (21-61) from the field, including 14 of 38 from beyond the arc. The Cowgirls recorded 16 assists and eight steals while pulling down 37 total rebounds.
 
Texas Lutheran's Sarahi Jones tied Koele with 17 points, and had a double-double with 12 rebounds, while Kayla Presley and Lauren Sansano combined for 28 points to pace the Bulldogs.
 
The Cowgirls (0-1) will return to action tomorrow at 4 p.m. against Schreiner back in the Mabee Athletic Complex on Saturday.
 
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